Photo Courtesy: nenews
Shillong: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma vowed to boost state support for tribal festivals during the closing of the Behdeiñkhlam Festival on Friday. The event concluded at the Biar Blai sacred pool in Tuber Kmai Shnong, East Jaintia Hills. Thousands of devotees from 30 villages participated. This included 19 villages from East Jaintia Hills and 11 from West Jaintia Hills.
Participants paraded 64 decorated Rongs through the streets. Each structure carried a message about modern social evils. Attendees later immersed the Rongs into sacred waters accompanied by rhythmic drum beats and traditional dances. The ceremony marked the end of the four-day, three-night event hosted by Seiñ Raij Tuber.
Sangma attended alongside Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar and Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla. Local MLAs Kyrmen Shylla and Santa Mary Shylla were also present. Members of the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council joined the crowd. On social media, the Chief Minister wrote: "Witnessed the vibrant Behdieñkhlam at Tuber, East Jaiñtia Hills District. A wonderful display of the rich and colourful tradition of the Niamtre community."
Behdeiñkhlam remains a cornerstone for the Niam Khasi-Niam Tre faith. Followers observe it after the sowing season to honor the Almighty and Deity Syiem Ryngkaw. They pray for protection against plagues and agricultural misfortune. The government now plans to expand assistance to all indigenous faith groups. Sangma emphasized that keeping these traditions alive helps educate younger generations about their roots while showing off the state’s diversity to the world.
Comments