THIS year’s event, says Majaw, has a lot more to offer. ‘‘For the first time, it’s professionally managed, and more importantly there are loads of memorabilia for people to take home. But then again, it’s not a concert proper but just about Dylan’s fans getting together to celebrate his birthday. If anything, I would like it if Dylan came to know about us sometime. Otherwise, I’m happy listening to and playing his music.’’

The event, put together jointly by anti-HIV/AIDS NGO Maitri and Airtel, will go a long way in raising funds for Maitrigram — a village for children below 10 years of age who have lost one or both parents to HIV/AIDS — says Sanjay Sharma of Maitri.

‘‘This year, Lou Majaw’s group have joined hands with us and asked us to manage the event. Next year, we hope to bring down Dylan to Shillong for a Woodstock-style event.’’

Whether Dylan comes down to Shillong or not, one thing is for sure: Majaw will make sure his city continues to throw the birthday bashes with the same reverence.

As he puts it, ‘‘Whether he comes down and hangs out with us on his birthday or sings us some songs, or just says hi and leaves, or doesn’t come down at all, we will continue to get together.’’

And what’s more, Dylan may find Shillong’s lovely streets and ethnic-western lifestyle, along with the paan-stain modern art an interesting paradox.