I'm delighted to share this official response from the Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) with you.

Meghalaya's Whistled Language was presented to and discussed by the Advisory Board on Intangible Cultural Traditions of India (AB ICH U); the body which suggests the lists for nomination to UNESCO ICH.

It's been over a year since I stumbled upon this unique and fast disappearing language and researched how the nomination of ‘Sfyria' (the whistled version of Greek) was started with one petition and championed by the local bodies. If it wasn't for your signatures and comments of genuine wonder, this news would not have been so melodious in these uncertain times.

You got the unique whistled language heard: To aid the decision making, SNA even requested for any documentary they could show to the Advisory team. I was only thrilled to quickly mail them a few online links I had gathered! While the proposal will again be presented in the next meeting, I want to thank the Sangeet Natak Akademi for graciously answering follow up calls and for their guidance to fill up the nomination form: Link: https://ich.unesco.org/en/forms (Deadline: March 2021)

As per my understanding, the form requires a State party’s involvement. In this case I would appreciate help, especially if you come from the whistling village. Write me: malvika_nov_25@yahoo.co.in with the subject line: Whistled Language/ Help or reach out on Facebook/ Instagram: @theshiftmakersproject for other upcoming work.

A whistled thank you!