Shillong, Nov 23: The annual Seng Kut Snem Festival, commemorating the 124 st anniversary of the Seng Khasi Movement to preserve, protect and uphold indigenous Khasi Religion, faith, culture and way of life, which began in 1899 was celebrated at the Lympung Weiking Grounds here in Meghalaya, Thousands of people, elderly men and women attired in traditional dress took to the streets of Shillong as they marched to the dancing ground at Weiking, Jaiaw The day was proclaimed as the day of dignity and solemnity of the indigenous faith and culture and to celebrate culture and traditions.
During the procession, the diverse and rich Khasi tradition through folk music and tableaux depicting various facets of the simple yet rich and colorful indigenous life-style was projected.
Traditional dances were held and special prayers were offered on this day.
The annual Seng Kut Snem festival is celebrated to commemorate the Seng Khasi Movement to preserve, protect and uphold indigenous Khasi religion and culture.
Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) Pyniaid Sing Syiem, the Syiem ka Hima Khyrim, Balajied Sing Syiem, The Syiem of the Hima Mylliem, Ainam Manik Syiem, The President of the Seng Khasi Kmie, Rgh Oplysor Pyngrope, Matsiewdor War Nongbri and others degnitories conveyed their greetings on the occasion.
The grand annual procession, showcasing the culture and heritage of the indigenous Khasi community were taken out, the traditional dances performed.
In the morning the Seng Khasi Kmie hoisted the Seng Khasi Flag at the Seng Khasi Hall in Mawkhar. Later in the afternoon around hundred attendees were part of the celebration held at Lympung Weiking, Jaiaw.
At the Weiking ground where the dance is held which is a major attraction of the festival, was performed. All other rituals were held by the priests to thank God almighty. The festival is also a form of community prayer for protection of the distinct identity of the Khasi Race.
This festival marks the Seng Khasi movement in which the indigenous people of the Khasi-Jaintia Hills region began a movement against British atrocities on the indigenous way of life.
It was on August 23, 1899 that 16 brave and nationalist Khasi youths formed the Seng Khasi to protect their indigenous religion, rich culture and unique language in the face of British onslaught. Since then, the movement has gained momentum imbibing a sense of pride in the Khasi youths in their rich heritage which is unique in the world.
