This is one of the most important festivals of the Khasi tribes. It is celebrated at 'Smit', which is the cultural center of the Khasis. It is five days celebration for thanking the Lord Almighty for a good harvest. The participants also pray for the peace and prosperity of the community. When the festival commences, the Syiem (the administrative head of the Khasi region) dance before a certain wooden pillar called "U Rishot Blei". Then a ritualistic sacrifice of goats is made followed by a series of rituals like offerings to the Gods and to the ancestors, 'Kalawbei U Thawlang'. Once the religious rituals are over, dancers begin their rituals. Unmarried girls in fine costumes and jewelleries dance within a circle with the men of open sword in one hand and a white yak-hair whisk in the other. They dance to the rhythmic beats of the drums and the clanking of cymbals and the flute striking up a melody in the background. Apart from it, there are lists of festivals that are celebrated by the people in the Khasi hills. Ka Shad Suk Mynsiem, Ka Pom-Blang Nongkrem, Ka-Shad-Shyngwiang-Thangiap, Ka-Shad-Kynjoh Khaskain, Ka Bam Khana Shnong, Umsang Nongkharai and Shad Beh Sier are also festivals, which are celebrated with much pomp and gaiety.
Fair & Festivals