Shillong: The Behdienkhlam festival hit its third day on Wednesday in Jowai. Sacred rites took center stage. Members of the Sein Raij Jowai installed the Deiñkhlam Bon at Iong Rngad Wah while the Symbood Khnong moved from Loom Soo Iung to Khlieh Shnong. Elders prepped traditional instruments before heading to sacred sites across Iawmusiang.
Women from six localities carried the Deiñkhlam through the streets. Traditional music and dance filled the air. Priests finished the religious proceedings at Madan Moosyiem by offering libations to Kñi Nikhla. The event moves toward its final day, Muchai, on July 9. Elaborate structures known as Rots will head to the Syiem Aitnar pool for immersion. The festival wraps up with the Datlawakor match.
Politics clouded the celebration. The Voice of the People Party questioned the decision to invite Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as the chief guest. Party spokesperson Dr. AW Rani claimed Sarma sparked insecurity for people living near the state border. Despite the critique, the VPP expressed hope for a unifying event. The party stated, “Shad Behdienkhlam is a celebration of our culture, identity, and unity.”
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