Behdienkhlam Festival begins amidst rainfall in Jowai

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 1, 2024

Amidst rainfall, the Behdienkhlam Festival has begun in Jowai with fervour and enthusiasm on June 30.

Behdienkhlam, meaning “chasing away the plague,” is deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural practices of the Pnar tribe. The festival aims to ward off plagues and evil spirits, ensuring prosperity and health for the community.

The festival spans four days known as “Soo sngi Le ïaw” and will conclude on July 3rd.

On the first day, June 30, the “Khon Raij,” collected the “Symbud Khnong from Riatturiem and placed at Loomsooiung, New Hill, Jowai for the night. While carrying the Symbud Khnong the faithful dance to the tune of drums, tangmuri, bugles, and cymbals to appease local deities and seek blessings for the community.

Earlier in the morning, Chutia collected “Khoo Pyrnah” from the house of Wet (Paswet, Wah Synji), followed by offerings “U Siang U Pha” to ancestors at their respective “Kmai Iung.”

The Dolloi, who heads the rituals, inspected the Symbud Khnong, followed by prayers and the ritual called “Ka Bam Tyngkong.”

The festival will continue on Monday (day 2), with all localities “Kmai Raij” participate to collect “Dienkhlam” (consecrated trees) from the forest.

The Dienkhlam will be placed at Iawmusiang for the night. When all localities arrive at Iawmusiang, the “Khonraij” will escort their “Khnong Blai” to specific places at Loomsooiung.