From Our Correspondent
JOWAI, July 9: The annual Behdeinkhlam festival of the Sein Raij Jowai on Sunday came to a close after four days and three nights of traditional pomp, merrymaking and celebrations.
One of the most popular religious festivals of the Pnar (Jaintia) community of the state, ‘Shad Behdeinkhlam’ is held after the sowing season and meant to drive away the diseases (locally known as ‘Khlam’).
The festival also related with the harvest festival that is observed as an appeasement to the Gods to ensure that the harvest is bountiful.
On the closing day of the celebrations, several dignitaries were present on the occasion in Jowai including Governor Phagu Chauhan, who was the chief guest, and the Chief Justice of High Court of Meghalaya, Sanjib Banerjee, Cabinet Minister and MLA of Khliehriat, Kyrmen Shylla, North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum, president of Sein Raij Jowai OR Challam, Doloi from different Elaka of Jaintia Hills, and other district officials.
As a tradition, ‘Rots’ or ‘Rong’ from various localities of Jowai and outside the town like Panaliar, Dulong, Loompyrdi Iongpiah, Lumkyrwiang, Lumiongkjam, Seiñ Tyllilang Ladthadlaboh, Umshangïar, Sein Raij Ummulong, Sein Raij Shillong, Seng Khasi were showcased on the closing day, adding colours to the festival.
The Governor as well as the Chief Justice expressed gratitude to all.
