The 2025 Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, set for November 14–15, will pay tribute to late Assamese music legend Zubeen Garg. Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma announced a star-studded lineup including Jason Derulo, The Script, and Nora Fatehi. The festival promises a vibrant fusion of music, culture, and heartfelt homage.
Petals, Pop & Pride: Shillong’s Cherry Blossom Festival to Bloom with Zubeen Garg Tribute and Global Icons
Shillong is gearing up for one of Northeast India’s most anticipated cultural spectacles—the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2025, scheduled for November 14 and 15 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Polo Grounds. This year’s edition will be extra special, as it includes a dedicated tribute to the late Zubeen Garg, the iconic Assamese singer whose music transcended borders and generations.
Key Highlights from the Festival Lineup:
Zubeen Garg Tribute Performance
A heartfelt musical homage will be performed by artists close to Zubeen, including Zublee, Priyanka, Prabin, and Arupjyoti.
The tribute is scheduled for November 15, the second day of the festival, and is expected to be one of the most emotional highlights.
Global Music Stars Take the Stage
The festival will feature international headliners like Jason Derulo, The Script, DJ Diplo (3-time Grammy winner), Aqua, and Tyga.
Bollywood sensation Nora Fatehi will also perform, adding a glamorous desi touch to the global lineup.
Cultural Fusion & Local Talent
Local artists such as Meba Ofilia, Dappest and adL, Girish and the Chronicles, and Arius will showcase Meghalaya’s vibrant music scene.
Events like the Mr. and Ms. Cherry Blossom competition, cosplay parades, and arm wrestling contests will add to the festive flair.
CM Conrad Sangma’s Announcement
The Chief Minister emphasized that this year’s festival will be a “grand celebration of music, art, and culture”, reflecting the diversity and creativity of Meghalaya.
He expressed pride in honouring Zubeen Garg, calling the tribute a fitting recognition of his legacy.
Tourism & Economic Boost
The festival is expected to draw thousands of tourists, boosting local businesses and promoting Meghalaya as a cultural and eco-tourism hotspot.
With cherry blossoms in full bloom and music in the air, Shillong is set to celebrate not just nature’s beauty, but also the enduring power of art and memory.
Sources: UNI India, India Today NE