Experience the Behdieñkhlam Festival: A Celebration of Pnar Heritage in Meghalaya

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 19, 2024

The vibrant and culturally rich Behdieñkhlam festival, organized by Seinraij Jowai, will be held in Jowai, Meghalaya, from June 30th to July 3rd, 2024. This festival, a cornerstone of the Pnar tribe’s cultural heritage, offers a captivating blend of traditional rituals, community spirit, and the natural beauty of Meghalaya.

Behdieñkhlam, 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.

Festival Schedule:

June 30: The “Khonraij” will collect the “Symbood Khnong” from Riatturiem, Pynthornein, and place it at Loomsooiung, New Hill, Jowai for the night.

July 1: All localities will collect the “Dienkhlam” (consecrated trees) from the forest, cheering and dancing to the tune of drums (bom), cymbals, and tuneful piping flutes. The Dienkhlam will be placed at Iawmusiang for the night. When all localities arrived at Iawmusiang, the “Khonraij will escorted their “Khnong Blai to particular place at Loomsooiung along with other localities with mary making and fanfare.

July 2: Houses will erect their “Deinkhlam khian” (consecrated shrubs). The “Symbood Khnong” will be fetched from Loomsooiung and erected at Khlieh Chnong, Chilliangraij. There will be an assembly at Mynkoi Pyrdi, Seinraij Jowai, to hear moral addresses from the Dolloi and elders. The localities will proceed to Iawmusiang in a festive procession. Additionally, the “Khong Blai” will be taken to “Pohsawiar” for prayers by the Dolloi and Elder of the “Nikhla Clan”. The localities will then erect their “Deinkhlam” in their respective places.

July 3: The “Kyntin Khnong” at Iung Langdoh will be conducted by Loompyrdi Iongpiah Dorbar Chnong, marching from Mynkoi Pyrdi, Iaw Iongpiah. The “Khonraij will escort “Khnong Blai” to “Syiem Aitnar” a sacred pool. The celebrations at Aitnar will concludes with the immersion of colourful raths.

The Datlawakor, traditional football matches played with wooden balls, will take place, symbolizing a good harvest for the winning team.

Exploring Meghalaya’s Beauty: Beyond the festival, attendees are encouraged to explore Meghalaya’s breathtaking landscapes, including rolling hills, lush greenery, majestic waterfalls, and serene rivers, which provide a stunning backdrop to the vibrant celebrations.

Community and Hospitality: Visitors will experience the warmth and hospitality of the Pnar tribe, gaining insights into their traditions and way of life. The welcoming atmosphere promises a truly memorable visit.

The Behdienkhlam festival offers a unique opportunity for cultural enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and travellers to immerse themselves in a captivating celebration of tradition, community, and natural beauty. Mark your calendars and prepare to be enchanted by Meghalaya’s most vibrant festival!