Meghalaya, a lovely state in North-East India, is recognized for its spectacular scenery, majestic waterfalls, and rich cultural legacy. There are various tribes in the state, each with its own set of customs, traditions, and way of life. In this blog, we shall examine more closely some of Meghalaya's fascinating tribes and the riches they possess.
The Khasi people are one of the major indigenous ethnic group of Meghalaya with a significant population in the bordering state of Assam, and in certain parts of Bangladesh. The Khasi people form the majority of the population of the eastern part of Meghalaya, and is the state’s largest community, with around 48% of the population of Meghalaya.
Khasi Tribe Festivals:
Nongkrem Dance is a religious festival in thanksgiving to God Almighty for good harvest, peace and prosperity of the community. The dance is performed in the open by young virgins and men, both bachelors and married.
The men form an outer circle and dance to the accompaniment of music of flutes and drums.. An important feature of the festival is the ‘Pomblang’ or goat sacrifice offered by the subjects to the Syiem of Khyrim, the administrative head of the Hima (Khasi State).
Shad Suk Mynsiem is one of the most important festivals of the Khasis is Ka Shad Suk Mynsiem or Dance of the joyful heart.
The Khasi people are proud of their traditional clothing, which includes a Jymphong (a sleeveless shirt) for ladies and a Jainsem (a long piece of fabric wrapped around the torso) for men.
They are one of those matrilineal and matrilocal societies where lineage and kinship flow from the female line. The Khasi woman, not the man, is the one who passes on the family name to progeny. She also inherits and assumes custodianship of the legacy and clan of her parents. And if she is the youngest daughter, her husband comes and stays in her house!
The Khasis number a minuscule population of 1.41 million. Together with their country cousins, the Garos, they make up two of the few matrilineal and matrilocal societies of India and the world. If you're considering a Meghalaya Trip Package
The Garos are the second largest ethnic groups in Meghalaya, making up 30% of the state's population. The Garo society follows a matrilineal system where lineage and inheritance are traced through the mother’s line.
Traditional Dresses of Garo Tribe consists of Eking, Turban, Kotip, Nadongbi nr sisha, Natapsi and Ripok. Wangala Festival also known as a 100 drums festival, is a most popular festival among the Garos of Meghalaya, India. Wangala Festival is a harvest festival held in honour of Saljong, the Sun-god of fertility. It is a must-see event. It features traditional music, dancing, and agricultural customs. Men wear a Daksari (a loincloth), and women wear a Dakmanda (a wraparound skirt) to express their identities. Exploring the Garo tribe's lifestyle and art forms will bring you closer to the spirit of Meghalaya's tribal history.
The Jaintias, a sub tribe of 'Khasi', also known as the Pnars, are a major tribe in Meghalaya. The Jaintias speak the Pnar language, which is part of the Austro-Asiatic language family and is similar to the Khasi language. Jaintias are a matrilineal society which is a very rare and unique practice where the children take the identity or family title solely from the mother. Jaintia men wear Jymphong and dhoti while the women wrap several pieces of clothes so as to give a cylindrical shape. During functions they wear crowns of silver and gold with peak attached at the back of it. The two most important festivals celebrated by the Jaintias are the Behdiengkhlam festival and Laho Dance festival. The Jaintia tribe is well-known for their coal mining and agricultural practices. They have a rich mythology based on their faith in spirits and deities. Traditional Jaintia tribal festivities, such as Behdeinkhlam and Laho Dance, are an important component of their cultural fabric. Males wear a Poho (a piece of fabric wrapped around the waist), while ladies wear a Dhara (a multifunctional garment). Immerse yourself in these celebrations' brilliant colors and rhythmic beats to properly comprehend the Jaintia tribe's soul.
Meghalaya provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn about the lives and cultures of its people. Consider booking a Meghalaya trip package with OurGuest that focuses on experiencing tribal tribes to make the most of your vacation to Meghalaya. You may observe their age-old customs, feel the warmth of their hospitality, and learn about their everyday lives directly. If you wish to explore the local culture of Meghalaya, it is a good idea to stay at a homestay in Meghalaya for an authentic local experience.
Trekking through scenic villages, engaging in tribal festivities, or sampling local cuisines are all part of a well-planned Meghalaya trip package. Remember that immersing yourself in Meghalaya's real tribal traditions will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your luggage and prepare for an exciting adventure across Meghalaya's tribes. Every step you take will reveal a new aspect of this enchanted realm. Experience Meghalaya's beauty, culture, and wildness while joining a unique tapestry of traditions
Written by Charity Matlai: Meghalaya's Unveiling Guide
Charity Matlai, a 25-year resident of Meghalaya, the "Abode of Clouds," isn't just a travel blogger – she's a local expert. Fueled by a lifelong love for exploration, Charity's passion for her home state led her to pursue degrees in Tourism and a career crafting unique adventures. With 5 years of travel industry experience, Charity unlocks Meghalaya's hidden gems, offering a glimpse into the region's untouched beauty and rich culture. Join Charity as she unveils the secrets of her beloved Meghalaya, one adventure at a time.
For a customized Meghalaya Trip Package, you can contact us at +91-7669503993 or email to contact@ourguest.in