As the founder of Studio Laban, my graphic design and branding agency, I carry a deep personal connection to the name that defines us. Laban, a vibrant neighbourhood in Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, North-East India, is where my roots lie. Every summer, I visited my grandmother in Laban, weaving memories through its winding lanes and a bustling market. Though she’s no longer with us, the spirit of Laban lives on in our work, inspiring a creative legacy that today resonates with startups, tech clients, corporates, and businesses of all sizes. Let's unravel the fascinating history, etymology, and origins of Laban, Shillong.

Laban’s story begins in the 1860s when the British established Shillong as a hill station, drawn by its cool climate reminiscent of Scotland. Initially a small farming village nestled in the Khasi Hills, Laban caught the eye of British administrators who saw it as an ideal settlement for Indian government servants, many from Dhaka. The local Khasi residents, unaccustomed to outsiders, gradually ceded land, transforming Laban into a melting pot. This marked Laban’s evolution from a quiet hamlet to a thriving township, a testament to its adaptability and cultural fusion.

The neighbourhood’s early days saw enterprising people from across the country renting and purchasing land at modest prices, laying the foundation for its cosmopolitan character, reflecting a community that embraced change while preserving its Khasi essence. In this cauldron of diversity, my grandmother’s home in Laban was a little sanctuary where I’d spend cool summer afternoons creating my very first pieces of art as a child.

The etymology of “Laban” remains a subject of intrigue, with no definitive origin etched in stone. Some suggest it derives from the Khasi language, possibly linked to “la” (meaning land or place) and “ban” (a term that could imply gathering or community), hinting at a “place of assembly.” Others propose a connection to the natural landscape—rolling hills and misty valleys that define Meghalaya’s charm. This ambiguity adds a layer of mystique, mirroring Laban’s role as a cultural crossroads where Khasi traditions blend with influences from Bengali, Assamese, and British settlers.

For me, Laban’s name evokes the warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen, where stories of resilience and community unfolded. My summers in Laban, exploring its Assam-type architecture homes and scenic spots, instilled a love for visual storytelling. I always believe that this narrative of a rich story rooted in history resonates with businesses seeking branding that tells a story—about its purpose and its origins—making Laban a perfect metaphor for creativity and connection.