07/11/2025
Foundation Stone Laid for Construction and Beautification of the Historic Cenotaph in Tura
Tura, Nov 7, 2025: Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma, today laid the foundation stone for the construction and beautification of the historic Cenotaph at Lower Babupara, Tura, in the presence of Sanbor Shullai, Minister of Art & Culture, Marcuise N. Marak, Minister in-charge of Public Health Engineering and Chairman of the Committee for the Preservation of Garo Culture and Heritage, Sanjay A. Sangma, MLA of Mahendraganj, and Vibhor Aggarwal, Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, along with senior officials, dignitaries, and members of the public.
The Cenotaph in Tura stands as a solemn memorial honoring the sacrifices of the Garo Labour Corps who served during the First World War. The ongoing project aims to restore and beautify this important landmark so that it continues to serve as a place of remembrance, pride, and reflection for generations to come.
The event commenced with a welcome address by J. D. Sangma, Chairman of the Tura Municipal Board, followed by an opening prayer led by Rev. Sweety Ch. Marak. Babynna T. Sangma, Member of the Cenotaph Committee, shared valuable insights into the historical and cultural importance of the memorial, while students from the Rhythm School of Music, Tura, presented a soulful performance to mark the occasion.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma, explained the origin of the word “Cenotaph,” derived from Greek, meaning “empty tomb,” and elaborated on its significance as a war memorial for those who laid down their lives in distant lands. He expressed deep gratitude to the Committee for the Preservation of Garo Culture and Heritage, under the chairmanship of Minister Marcuise N. Marak, as well as to senior citizens, religious leaders, and members of civil society for their efforts in shaping the project.
Acknowledging the emotional and historical value of the Cenotaph, the Chief Minister emphasized that it stands as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of the Garo Labour Corps who served in World War I. He announced that once the construction is completed, all members of the Garo Labour Corps — both those who perished and those who returned — would be honored in a befitting manner.
He also urged the Committee to reach out to the descendants and families of the Garo Labour Corps to document their stories and contributions. Highlighting the importance of research and documentation, the Chief Minister said that the Government will extend full support to the Committee in undertaking studies in collaboration with foreign governments to recover historical records and ensure a comprehensive understanding of this chapter in Garo history.
Expressing appreciation for the new design of the memorial, Conrad K. Sangma remarked that it is “simple yet dignified,” reflecting the solemnity and significance of the site. He further suggested that modern technology be used to provide visitors with historical information about the monument, thereby enriching their experience and understanding.
In his address, Marcuise N. Marak outlined the Committee’s meeting schedules, roles, and initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Garo culture and heritage. He underscored the importance of documentation to safeguard cultural practices and monuments, ensuring their transmission to future generations. He also recounted the hardships endured by members of the Garo Labour Corps, who journeyed far from their homeland to serve in France during World War I, often in harsh and unfamiliar conditions. He commended their courage and sacrifice, describing them as an inspiring yet lesser-known chapter of Garo and Indian history.
The ceremony was attended by members of the Cenotaph Committee, representatives from NGOs, local leaders, officials, and residents, who expressed their appreciation for the Government’s initiative to restore and enhance one of Tura’s most significant historical monuments.
