8 most famous Meghalaya bazaars and festivals you must witness.
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If you think that the northeastern state of Meghalaya is nothing but thunder clouds and vast green landscapes, you are wrong! Fascinating culture, deep caves, lush green forests and the spectacular charm of cascading waterfalls make Meghalaya a fantastic tourist destination. The Meghalaya Cultural Festival is celebrated with a grand ceremony where the elders pass on the tradition to the younger generation, making them more aware of their culture.
When translated, the name Meghalaya means the abode of clouds. Although many festivals are celebrated in this northeastern state, read on to learn more about the famous Meghalaya festival that represents its culture.
Festivals and Cultures in Meghalaya You should plan a trip:
To experience the rich traditions and culture of Meghalaya, you need to plan a trip to this beautiful place during some famous festivals. We introduce you to some of the famous Meghalaya festivals you need to know about.
1. Behdeinkhlam Festival:
Behdeinkhlam is a festival in Meghalaya that is celebrated for four days by the Jain tribes of the Niamtre religion. It is celebrated before the sowing season and is thought to successfully ward off evil. During this festival, various ceremonies and sacrifices are performed as traditions. For example, the people of the Janitia tribe play a game similar to football, but with a wooden ball called Datlawakor. It is believed that it will bring good luck and production to the person who wins the game. The colourful activities attract locals and tourists to Meghalaya.
Main Attractions: Number of tall bamboo structures decorated with tinsel and colored paper.
when: July.
Where: Jain Mountain Village and Jowai Town.
Festival Duration: Four days.
2. Whangara Festival:
The Whangara festival marks the end of the agricultural year and is celebrated by the Garo people of Meghalaya. This festival is a day of thanksgiving to Misi-A-Gilpa-Saljong-Galapa, the god of fertility. Also known as the Hundred Drum Festival, men and women dance gracefully while patting Nagara. Women wore brightly colored silks, shirts, and feathered turbans, while men typically wore dhotis, half-coats, and turbans.
Main Attractions: Men play drums.
when: September to December.
Festival Duration: two days.
3. Seng Kut Snem:
Seng Kut Snem is a festival celebrating Khasi beliefs and culture, marking the importance of the Seng Khasi movement. On November 23, 1899, 16 young men formed an organization called the Khasi Young Men’s Association to protect the local way of life from the British. Therefore, Seng Kut Snem is celebrating the first anniversary of the Khasi Young Men’s Association for the first time. The association was renamed Seng Khasi in 1901, and annual celebrations are held to commemorate the movement. Instead, unlike New Year’s celebrations in many other communities, this occasion is a community prayer that preserves the unique identity of the Khasi. Elders impart oral teachings during the festivities and carry out programs on traditional beliefs, beliefs, behaviors, rituals, and Kasi cultural practices.
Main Attractions: Thousands of people wear their best traditional clothes to celebrate the festival.
when: November.
Where: Shillong.
Festival Duration: one day.
4. Shad Suk Mynsiem Festival:
Shad Suk Mynsiem is an important festival of the Khasi tribe, but it is also celebrated by the Jaintia and Garo tribes. People in Meghalaya celebrate this festival every April. Also known as the “Happy Heart Dance”, this festival is a celebration of extraordinary dance steps and invites all Khasi people to celebrate this dance festival. Another name for this festival is Shad Phur, which lasts for three days. The festival of Shad suk mynsiem symbolizes the cult of fertility, representing the male as the cultivator, nourishing the crops and protecting the nurse, while the female represents the carrier of the seed.
Main Attractions: Colorful dances are performed next to the Viking grounds in Shillong.
when: April.
Where: Viking venue.
Festival Duration: three days.
See also: Best Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Meghalaya
5. Nongkrem Dance Festival:
Nongkrem Festival is one of the famous festivals celebrated by the Khasi people. It is celebrated with pomp and joy every year at Smit, and Syiem performs the ceremony. Ka Syiem Sad is considered the caretaker of the ceremony and the people, as they are the head of Khasi State. This festival is celebrated for the prosperity of the people, the abundance of grains, and the peace. Men perform Shad Mystieh, surrounded by young women performing Shad Kyntei. The circles formed by men around young women represent male protection and male power over women. Many people from all over the world visit Meghalaya for the Nongkrem festival.
Main Attractions: Traditional costumes, delicious kasi food, Shad Mystieh dancing.
when: autumn.
Where: Schmidt.
Festival Duration: Five days.
6. Anchovy Sukra:
Shad Sukra is an annual festival celebrated by the Jains in Meghalaya before the sowing season. Only after the festival has begun will the seeds be sown. Men and women who attend this festival wear traditional gold jewellery. They prayed to protect their crops from disaster and prayed for a good harvest. In addition, men and women perform rituals, dances and music to the accompaniment of drums and flutes.
Main Attractions: Dances and rituals accompanied by drums and flutes.
when: April/May.
Where: Joytown West Jain Hill.
Festival Duration: three days.
7. Cherry Blossom Festival:
November is the month when cold air blows hairs across India, but Meghalaya is happily basking in the glory of beautiful pink cherry blossoms. These beautiful blooms turn the state capital and East Kasi hills pink, marking the start of the Indian version of autumn. The Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the unique fall bloom of the Himalayan cherry blossoms in November. You can experience the arts and crafts of the area as well as numerous events such as beauty pageants, live music, storytelling, bike rallies and more.
Main Attractions: With cherry blossoms, rock concerts, bike rally, dance performances.
when: mid-November.
Where: Shillong.
8. Shillong Mid-Autumn Festival:
Shillong Autumn Festival is one of the festivals that marks the beginning of the season and is a famous festival in India. This is a cultural event that reflects the national culture and is mainly held in Shillong. You can find the capital city beautifully transformed into a center of joy and play, making it a tourist attraction. Also, you can find some handicraft displays, food and wine festivals, fashion shows and more to keep tourists and locals interested.
Main Attractions: Music performances, wine, food festivals, flower shows, handicraft displays.
when: October to November.
Where: Shillong.
Festival Duration: one day.
see more: Meghalaya tourist attractions
The beautiful state of Meghalaya offers a unique experience for tourists and lovers of tradition. The Meghalaya Festival enriches your experience with a unique and rich local culture. Don’t forget to share the information with your friends; let us know if this article was helpful.
FAQ:
1. What is the Indian state of Meghalaya famous for?
answer:
- The beautiful state of Meghalaya is home to a variety of medicinal plants, spices, vegetables and fruits.
- It is also known for nearly 325 species of orchids.
2. What are the must-buy things in Meghalaya?
answer: If you’re planning a vacation to this beautiful state, here are some real things about the place that will help you cherish the memories of your visit.
- Scottish cloth.
- Organic products.
- Handicrafts made from bamboo.
- Shawls and shawls.
3. What is the staple food of Meghalaya?
answer: Rice is consumed in different forms and varieties and is a staple food in Meghalaya. There are several famous and delicious curry dishes, and rice is the perfect accompaniment. One of the Meghalaya crowd’s favorite rice is pumaloy.