Govt launches OTT platform Hello Meghalaya

The state government on Thursday launched Hello Meghalaya, an Over-The-Top (OTT) platform to promote content creators and musicians of Meghalaya.

Meghalaya is the second state in the country to launch such an initiative after Kerala.

For film makers, the platform provides up to Rs.5 lakh per film, with additional funding for nationally or internationally acclaimed films. Content creators will get Rs.18,000 every month for maximum uploads, more funds are provided based on number of views they have. Short video makers, short film makers are also benefitted from the platform.

Further, the government is also planning to stream key live events in the app such as football matches of state’s leagues, music festivals, Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project(MGMP) events and many more. The plan is to make the content and events available to everybody in the state.

A formal collaboration between the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project(MGMP) and Hard Rock Cafe was also inked on the occasion.

Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, Chief Secretary Donald P Wahlang and Director, Tourism CVD Diengdoh were also present.

“The launch of Hello Meghalaya which is one of the country’s first OTT platforms, is an initiative for film makers, content creators and musicians of the state to get the platform they deserve to showcase their work”, the chief minister said.

Paul Lyngdoh, while speaking on MGMP, said that 3000 musicians are earning through music. The collaboration with Hard Rock Cafe today will give a platform to Shillong/Meghalaya based artistes to perform in Hard Rock Cafes across the country.

He added, “We are over the top with today’s launch, confident that the content creators and awardees will be inspired to take arts seriously. We are trying to bridge the gap between potential and possibilities.”

The chief minister said the collaboration between Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP) and Hard Rock Cafe is a game changer as young talent pool will have a chance to showcase their musical prowess at national and international levels.

On the support of the government, Conrad said tax considerations to reduce the ticket rates to watch movies are looked into. Theatres would also be set up in various districts for screening of local content.

“We can only provide the platform and it is upto various audio and visual creators to keep up the momentum and sustain the platform. We are also providing financial incentives to beneficiaries. Govt will support and will get a wide audience. At the end we are trying to create an ecosystem where artists can sustain themselves and earn a livelihood”, Conrad said.

He said the initiative will also help in improvement and promotion of language and this is a great opportunity in the context of constant plea for inclusion of the local languages of the state in the 8th Schedule.

Recalling his conversation with the Prime Minister, Conrad said the prime minister is eager to see a fusion of indigenous music which will be an agent for exchange of culture to showcase the diverse spectrum of India’s music.

Chief Secretary DP Wahlang said Meghalaya is brimming with activities and assured that the government is committed to create jobs. He said that Hello Meghalaya is not just a digital platform but celebration of cultural heritage, stating that it is a groundbreaking initiative.

More about MGMP
The Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP) is a pioneering initiative aimed at nurturing and promoting the rich musical heritage of Meghalaya. Rooted in the vibrant cultural tapestry of this north eastern Indian state, MGMP is dedicated to discovering, supporting, and showcasing local talent. The project provides a platform for budding musicians to hone their skills, perform before diverse audiences, and gain recognition beyond regional boundaries. Eight months into the second season, MGMP’s mission remains firm, to preserve and celebrate the unique musical traditions of Meghalaya while fostering the growth of contemporary music scenes within the state.

Collaboration with Hard Rock Cafe venues in India:
MGMP has joined hands with Hard Rock Cafe outposts in India to bring the sounds of Meghalaya to a broader audience. This collaboration aims to push local bands through an extensive tour across various cities in India, offering them exposure and opportunities. The partnership will see talented MGMP artists performing at Hard Rock Cafe venues in major cities viz. Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, New Delhi and Kolkata, allowing music enthusiasts nationwide to experience the distinctive melodies and rhythms of Meghalaya.

The collaboration not only provides a larger stage for Meghalaya’s musicians but also integrates the rich cultural heritage of the region into the vibrant music scene of urban India. By combining MGMP’s grassroots approach with Hard Rock Cafe’s platform, the initiative promises to enhance cultural exchange, boost local tourism, and celebrate the diversity of Indian music.

Awards for content creators
There was also a content creator’s contest and the jury consisted of Patricia Mukhim, Editor, The Shillong Times Simi Khongthiang- filmmaker from Jaintia Hills, Nambi Marak runner-up Master Chef India, Cyril D Diengdoh- Director Tourism, Robert Diengdoh-Chief Administrative Officer, Meghalayan Age Limited, MS Sangma Director DIPR and D.Shira Director Arts and Culture. Besides the opinion of the jury, public poll was also instrumental in selecting the winners of the 14 categories.

The winners

1. Social change influencer – JR Storyteller Lyndon
2. Best green influencer – Green Tech Foundation
3. Emerging influencer of the year- Warimeki Lyngwa
4. Best food influencer- Triyan Babilsi
5. Best travel influencer- Grace Marbaning Arkimpito A Momin
6. Best comedy influencer- Chi Iing
7. Best lifestyle influencer – Pema Lalami Kyndiah
8. Best fashion influencer – Dr Kham Chyrmang
9. Best music influencer- Saldorik D Sangma, Wanjop Sohklet
10. Best make up influencer- Rachel’s Anne Nongkhlaw
11. Most viral influencer – Biria Shillong
12. Infotainment influencer- Iowanmi Myria, Technology Da Khasi
13. Healthy and wellbeing influencer – Dapalei Stacy Warjri
14. Best podcaster- Ferdinand Rani, Ha Shillong

Meghalaya Monitor