About 600 people, representing 140 tribes from 58 countries, are participating in India’s first indigenous Terra Madre in Shillong that began on Tuesday

The todas arrived draped in distinctive black and red shawls. Beside them stood the Garos, in flamboyant feathered head gear. As they lined up stiffly in a row, posing for the camera, two cheerful Native Americans — resplendent in turquoise belts, ribbons and neatly plaited hair — photobombed them.
This was a truly spectacular gathering. About 600 people representing 140 tribes from 58 countries in one venue. India’s first indigenous Terra Madre kicked off on Tuesday with a high voltage ceremony here at the scenic sprawling campus of The North Eastern Hill University. Supported by the Meghalaya government and organised by the Indigenous Partnership (Rome) and the North East Slow Food & Agrobiodiversity Society (NESFAS) in collaboration with Slow Food International, this event has brought together leaders of indigenous tribes from all over the world so that they can share their knowledge of food, nutrition and bio-cultural diversity.
The man behind the event, NESFAS chairman Phrang Roy, began by talking about how this was the biggest meeting of indigenous communities in recent times. “We are here to learn from each other,” he said. “We are here to continue and strengthen our ongoing dialogue.”
Talking of climate change, environmental challenges and cultural oppression, he added: “We need to offer hope. This International Terra Madre will be that period of hope. A time to talk of growth and prosperity that is within ecological boundaries, that is socially egalitarian. A time to talk about collective peace and harmony.”
Prince of Wales’ message
In a video message that was recorded at St. James Court, London, the Prince of Wales told the gathering: “Our essential unity is dangerously fragmented. This is because, instead of seeing ourselves within nature, we see ourselves standing apart from it.”
Renowned geneticist Dr. M.S. Swaminathan also sent a video message talking of the critical role of the indigenous people in agriculture. “It is important that their role is recognised and rewarded. Economically as well as psychologically.”
Next, this year’s official anthem “Ko Mei-Ramew” ( Mei-Ramew, meaning Mother Earth in Khasi, is also a celebration of indigenous food being held along with this Terra Madre) was next played live. Much to the delight of the audience, Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, who was the guest of honour, began his speech by singing the first line of the song before inviting everyone to “walk through the clouds” in Meghalaya, “because this is one of the most beautiful hill stations in the world.”
Carlo Petrini, the influential founder of Slow Food, spoke last, delivering a rousing sermon on how it was time for change. “Our land is suffering because of the greed of a few people who want to deprive it of its resources. They think these resources are endless. We are losing our history. We are losing our food heritage. I invite all of you to defend your own produce. If we consume local products we will be able to change the paradigm. And change the planet.”
The event, liberally interspersed with local dance and music, concluded with a powerful performance by the Shillong chamber choir, with contemporary dancer Astad Deboo performing in the foreground. The newly formed Shillong Choral society, featuring 122 singers (the youngest among them is a solemn 5-year-old boy in a snazzy tuxedo and bow tie) joined them for the last three songs.