Jowai, 15 July 2025: The Behdieñkhlam Festival, one of the most important traditional festivals of the Pnar community, concluded on 14 July 2025 at Pung Aitnar, Panaliar in Jowai. The festival was marked by devotion, unity, and vibrant cultural displays.
People from across the Khasi-Jaintia region took part in the sacred rituals. A major highlight was the immersion of large wooden structures called rots into the sacred Aitnar pool. These beautifully crafted structures symbolize the act of driving away evil and disease from the community.
The main prayer was performed by the elders, led by the Doloi (traditional chief), who prayed for peace and prosperity. Several dignitaries attended the event, including Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, Health Minister Dr. Ampareen Lyngdoh, Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla, and ministers Sanbor Shullai and Kyrmen Shylla.
Highlights from Various Localities:
Dulong: Known for its ancient traditions, Dulong showcased a rot that was carried with pride through traditional routes.
Tpep Pale: This locality, linked to freedom fighter U Kiang Nangbah, presented its rot under the historic Lum Ryngkaw hill.
Panaliar: One of the biggest localities, it featured two rots — one traditional and another with a tiger theme.
Loomiongkjam: Residents performed sacred ceremonies, including Kyntin Khñong at the Lung Lyngdoh site.
Loompyrdi: Known for spiritual rituals such as Dein Seh Dein Chan, which symbolize protection and purity.
Chilliang Raij: Home to important shrines, it demonstrated deep religious devotion.
Ummulong and Sein Raij Shillong: Though many members now live elsewhere, they returned to participate, showing strong ties to their roots.
Umshangiar: Their rot carried an environmental message titled “Save the Globe” with the motto “When we hurt nature, we hurt ourselves.”
Sein Tylli Lang Niamtre: This group conducted rare traditional sacrifices to Syiem Myntdu and Thwai Soo Lyngen, important rituals in the Niamtre faith.
Behdieñkhlam 2025 once again brought together the Jaintia people in celebration of their rich cultural heritage, reminding all of the importance of unity, tradition, and spiritual strength.
