The state of Meghalaya lies in Seismic Zone V and is extremely vulnerable to earthquakes and cyclones. Borne of this necessity to survive in a region thus plagued with nature’s wrath, the people of the land have developed building traditions that are unique to Meghalaya and its diverse geographies. The craft of construction, like all traditional craftsmanship, is handed down as a legacy within the family for generations. But over the years this traditional ethos is gradually eroding away in the constant clamour for ‘pucca’ and permanent structures to the detriment of the rich historic built heritage and folk architecture of the region. ‘An Elegy for the Traditional Way of Life’ looks at this tug of war between aspirations of modernity and the obligation to preserve ones identity and culture in the state of Meghalaya. The dilemma of development is echoed through the voices of the people and their conflicting opinions on building systems in the region.