JOWAI: Sein Raij Tuber – the largest traditional religious organisation in Jaintia Hills, celebrated the Shad Sukra – an annual sowing festival celebrated by followers of Niamtre or the traditional faith – on Tuesday at Khloo Blai in Tuberkmai shnong.
The Shad-Sukra is celebrated at the start of spring just before people start cultivating their farm land.
“It is the time for members of the family to come home as the growing season arrives. After harvesting, men normally leave their families in search of jobs, but when the growing season arrives all have to come home and start cultivation,” said former SRT President, Helping Phawa.
“When the family members come back home, the village organises the Shad Sukra festival,” he added.
The SRT has organised a joint Shad Sukra festival for three consecutive years.
Meanwhile, the Sein Raij Jowai will be celebrating the Shad Sukra at Mynkoipyrdi, Iongpiah Jowai and Iawmusiang on Sunday.
Local MLA, Wailad Shylla will attend the festival at Mynkoipyrdi while AL Hek Minister in charge of Arts and Culture will attend the festival at Iawmusiang.
