Khon Raij carry the Symbood Khnong

Members of the Khon Raij carry the Symbood Khnong or the ‘Consecrated Tree’ from a forest at Urkhla. The consecrated tree will remain at Lawmusiang for a night. This tree is then taken to Aitnar, a sacred pool filled with muddy water. The ritual that follows involves people touching the tree for prosperity. The main attraction of the festival takes place when young men fight for the possession of the tree stump. The festival will culminate on Tuesday at the Aitnar. (ST)