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Irish Suzan as Winter Queen 2013 in Tura

The week-long Ahaia Winter Festival concluded on a glittering note on December 14 evening with much hyped Winter Queen 2013. Irish Suzan Ch Marak was crowned as the Winter Queen 2013 by Meghalaya CM Dr. Mukul Sangma. The winner of the Winter Queen has the onus to proagate the message of peace and harmony as the "ambassador of peace".
 
Isis Norakie M Sangma was adjusted first runner up and Pattyanna N Sangma as the second runner up. A total of 11 beautiful contestants vyied for the coveted title - Winter Queen 2013, organised by the West Garo Hills District Administration in collaboration with Art & Culture Society and Meghalaya Tourism.
 
It was a perfect end to the annual Ahaia Winter Festival with the theme - 'Give Peace a Chance'. All the gorgeous contestants had to introduce themselves and appeal to the crowd for religious tolerance and peace. 
 
The contestants were judged in three rounds - first the traditional garo attire, second on the 1980s fashion and trends and third on the evening gown. The contestants during thier interaction had to face questions from the judges, which spoke about what will be thier role as ambassador of peace.
 
The Winter Queen was one of its kind as the event demonstrated latent talents of youthful energy and vibrant culture of the Garos. The Nengminza Industry showcased the evolution of Dakmanda (wraparound wore by Garo wome) from 1970s.
 
The event also showcased shawl's weaved by 100 per cent linen, which were crafted by artisans, sponsored by the Border Area Development circle of Ampati. 
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Saidul Khan's picture

Based in Tura, Meghalaya

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