Shillong: Chants filled Jowai on Sunday as the Seinraij gathered at the sacred pool of Aitnar. The Pnar community kicked off the second day of Behdienkhlam, an annual festival dedicated to spiritual health and a strong harvest. The Dolloi, Langdoh, and Waheh Wasan led the Knia Aitnar ceremony to ward off sickness and ensure the soil stays fertile.
The Dolloi of Elaka Jowai paid for the costs of the ritual, keeping his traditional role for the welfare of the people. After the prayers, crowds marched from Mynkoi Pyrdi to the sound of drums to fetch heavy logs called Deinkhlam. Men from neighborhoods including Panaliar, Dulong, and Tpep-Pale hauled the massive timber to Iawmusiang.
The logs faced a strict inspection at Loom Sooïung. The Khon Raij compared each piece against the sacred Khnong Blai to make sure no log grew taller than the spiritual anchor. A Waheh Wasan explained the importance of these traditions during the event. "These rituals are the heartbeat of our community, especially for those of us who depend on the land," he said.
Monday brings the next stage of the festival. Locals will raise the logs in their home areas as the Dolloi transfers the Khnong Blai to Kni Nikhla for further ceremonies.
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