Meghalaya folklore comes alive with screening of Apot – A Presage of Tiewlarun

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 30, 2025

Shillong witnessed a celebration of Khasi folklore on Friday with the special screening of Apot – A Presage of Tiewlarun at the LARITI Auditorium. Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh attended the event, appreciating the film’s role in preserving cultural identity.

Speaking at the screening, Lyngdoh thanked the team, including Raphael Warjri and his casting crew, calling the project a standout effort with potential for national and international recognition. He praised the artistic portrayal of Tiewlarun, noting that the film did justice to the folklore that has been passed down through generations, and said it would inspire young filmmakers.

Apot draws from the traditional Khasi tale of Tiewlarun, a forbidden flower believed to bring misfortune. The story follows a brother and sister, the sole survivors of a plague-stricken village. When the sister defies her brother’s warning and disturbs the sacred flower, tragedy ensues, unfolding a haunting narrative of love, loss, and fate.

More than its storyline, the film offers a visual tribute to Meghalaya’s scenic landscapes—its hills, forests, and cultural traditions—making it both a cinematic and cultural journey. The project also aligns with Meghalaya’s broader vision of promoting cultural and eco-tourism through compelling visual storytelling.