The state of Meghalaya, located in the far northeast of India, is a lesser-known gem when it comes to travel. However, it has one of the most unique and vibrant cultures that the predominant tribal population in the state has developed. The three main tribes of the state are Khasi, Garo and Jaintia. Each of these tribes has their unique culture and traditions.
At the same time, Meghalaya’s unique culture has its distinctive cuisine, costumes, songs, dances and artisanal crafts with extensive use of natural items. At the same time, their Festival is lively and filled with folk music, ancient myths and seasonal produce.
Overall, Meghalaya’s culture has a vibrant spirit that emphasises localisation and integrity of indigenous traditions. All this makes it truly exceptional in the modern world.
Meghalaya’s Unique Culture:
1. Matrilineal Societies
One of Meghalaya’s most striking features is the dominant role of females. For instance, the ancestral property and lineage are passed down from mother to youngest daughter in their society.
It is rare and gives women more financial and social independence than in other societies of the country.
2. Language
The main common languages are Khasi and Garo. Also, some other languages, Jaintia and English, are the official languages spoken in the state. In addition, some tribes have maintained their linguistic traditions irrespective of modern influences.
3. Cuisine
The common staple food of the state includes rice, fish, bamboo shoots and fermented foods. Also, it reflects the agricultural lifestyle and ties to nature.
They also rear goats, pigs, fowl, ducks and cows and relish their meat. Some popular state dishes include Jadoh, Ki Kpu, tung rymbai, and pickled bamboo shoots.
4. Arts & Crafts
In terms of Arts and Crafts, colourful hand-woven textiles are quite famous. They have intricate tribal patterns, which makes them unique.
In addition, cane and bamboo furniture is widely made and used. Moreover, finely woven wicker baskets are also famous art forms.
Also, Meghalaya celebrates some of the most exciting Festivals and dances like:
Wangala Festival
Wangala Festival is also known as the 100 Drums Festival. On this occasion, the trials offer sacrifices to please their main deity, Saljong. Saljong is the Sun-god of fertility.
The Festival is famous among the Garos of Meghalaya, India. It’s a kind of harvest festival where you can get to eat authentic Garo cuisine. You will get an opportunity to relish local dishes like bamboo shoot curry, rice cakes, and several other traditional dishes.
Shad Suk Mynsiem
Shad Suk Mynsiem is a springtime dance performed at the Shad Suk temple. On this occasion, flutes, drums and pipes are played to create an ideal festive music.
It’s also known as the dance of peaceful hearts. The program is organised in April because the spring season is symbolic of rebirth. It highlights the beginning of new cycles during which new seedlings are planted.
Behdienkhlam Festival
Behdienkhlam is the largest festival of practitioners of the Niam Tre religion. It is a festival dedicated to a good harvest and a prosperous year. You can see the biggest celebrations in Jowai (West Jaintia Hills) and Tuberkmai (East Jaintia Hills).
It’s a religious event of the Jaintias tribe. Throughout the festival, you will get an opportunity to see sights of colourful costumes, sword dancing on boats, and rituals driving evil spirits away.
Apart from the culture and festivals, the Khasi Tribe is popular in the state. Some of the popular facts about the Tribe include:
- Khasi is the Largest ethnic group, located centrally in Khasi and Jaintia Hills. They follow matrilineal customs.
- The people usually have ancient Animist beliefs. They pray to a single, omnipotent God.
- It’s listed as one of the few surviving matrilineal cultures globally. Among them, the family descendant passes inheritance from the mother to the youngest daughter.
- They have an old and rich oral tradition which reveals a hidden truth of their past.
- English is the second language of the Khasi people.
- Monogamy is the common form of marriage in the Khasi Tribe.
- Intermarriage practice is allowed between this tribe.
Final Words:
As we come to the end, we can conclude that Meghalaya has one of the most unique and vibrant cultures. Its tribal population, tradition, Festivals and localised way of life have maintained its identity in a world of Western influences. They are full of unique music, food and art that endures proudly today, which gives a lot to learn for other tribes and communities.
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