SHILLONG, JAN 28: The Hynñiewtrep Youths’ Council (HYC) has urged the state government to construct a dedicated cultural centre at Khyndailad, Shillong, to preserve the historic name and cultural legacy of the area.
In a letter to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Urban Affairs Sniawbhalang Dhar on Wednesday, HYC president Roy Kupar Synrem said, “‘Khyndailad’ deserves to be remembered not as a forgotten name, but as a living symbol of Khasi heritage in the heart of Shillong…It is therefore earnestly requested that the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, I/c Urban Affairs Department, to kindly consider this demand and direct the concerned departments to undertake a feasibility study and initiate the project in consultation with local stakeholders, traditional bodies and organisations.”
“The proposed centre would serve multiple purposes, including preservation of cultural identity, promotion of local artistes, entrepreneurship, and sustainable tourism,” he added.

The centre is envisioned to comprise an open performance space, designated shops for traditional foods and indigenous crafts, and interpretative installations explaining the historical significance of ‘Khyndailad’.
HYC believes this initiative would honour the past, create livelihoods, and instill pride among the people.
“Such a centre would enhance Shillong’s cultural tourism appeal, transforming ‘Khyndailad’ into a living cultural monument rather than a congested commercial zone,” Synrem added.

