‘Ki Dienjat’ Research Project to Examine Historical, Social and Cultural Connections
Shillong, August 18: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday launched “Ki Dienjat – Re-examining Khasi-Jaiñtia Socio-cultural Linkages with Southeast Asia,” a major research initiative of the State Department of Arts and Culture aimed at scientifically examining possible historical and cultural connections between the Khasi-Jaiñtia people and communities in Southeast Asia.
The project was launched at the State Guest House, Taraghar, Shillong, in the presence of Arts and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai, Principal Secretary of Arts and Culture Frederick Roy Kharkongor, IAS, Meghalaya High Court Judge Justice H.S. Thangkhiew, scholars, researchers and other dignitaries.
Announcing an allocation of ₹10 crore, Sangma said the MDA Government would support the initiative as a comprehensive research exercise rather than one limited to linguistic similarities.
The study will draw upon evidence from linguistics, archaeology, architecture, traditional institutions and governance systems, textiles, indigenous food, ornaments, rituals and oral traditions, among other aspects of Khasi-Jaiñtia society and culture.
Evidence, Not Preconceived Conclusions
Describing “Ki Dienjat”—meaning “footprints”—as an exciting journey of discovery, the Chief Minister urged scholars involved in the project to approach the research without predetermined conclusions.
“We do not know where this journey will take us, and that is what makes it even more exciting. We may discover many things that could surprise us,” Sangma said.
He stressed that credible and verifiable evidence must determine the direction of the research, with every conclusion being transparent, accurate and supported by dependable sources.
Sangma also called for caution and sensitivity towards cultural sentiments while undertaking the study. Given the scale and potential implications of the research, he said its possible legal implications should also be carefully examined.
Initiative to Preserve Meghalaya’s Cultural Identity
The Chief Minister said the idea for the project had emerged from discussions held over several years with experts and individuals working to preserve and better understand the identity of Meghalaya’s indigenous communities.
He described “Ki Dienjat” as a mission that could leave an enduring legacy for future generations and said it forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to preserve, celebrate and strengthen Meghalaya’s cultural identity.
Sangma cited initiatives involving the State logo, State anthem, traditional attire, cultural spaces, indigenous cuisine and heritage sites as part of the Government’s continuing efforts to reinforce the State’s heritage.
He also highlighted efforts to improve spaces traditionally used for ceremonies and cultural practices, stressing that development of such sites must be undertaken without compromising their sanctity and historical significance.
Multidisciplinary Research
The project is expected to bring together scholars and experts from multiple disciplines to investigate possible links between the Khasi-Jaiñtia people and Southeast Asian communities.
The research will involve field studies, systematic documentation, scientific investigation and comparative analysis, with findings expected to contribute to a deeper understanding of the region’s historical and socio-cultural connections.
