Tuber, Jaintia Hills | July 22, 2025: The vibrant and spiritually significant Behdeiñkhlam festival — the largest of its kind in the region — was celebrated with grandeur today by the Sein Raij Tuber in Jaintia Hills. The much-awaited annual festival, deeply rooted in the indigenous Niamtre faith, culminated at Tuberkmai Shnong village in a spectacular display of cultural unity and tradition.

This year’s celebration witnessed the participation of 64 elaborately crafted “rots” — large, decorative wooden structures — brought in by faithful devotees from across West and East Jaintia Hills. Each rot, rich with symbolic and artistic detail, was carried in a spirited procession by members of the Sein Raij Tuber.

Representing over 28 villages, men and youth danced in rhythm to traditional drums and musical instruments, offering prayers for communal well-being and the cleansing of evil. Thousands of onlookers, including locals and tourists, lined the streets to witness the grand event, which blended devotion, cultural expression, and festive fervor.

Behdeiñkhlam, meaning “driving away the plague,” is a celebration of hope, health, and unity — a tradition that continues to thrive at the heart of Jaintia identity.