SHILLONG, Feb 23: The annual “Mawkynthei” rituals were held on Sunday at Umkaduh village in Ri-Bhoi district. The ceremonies and offerings were conducted by the Riew Tymmen Riewsan (elders) from Seng Khasi Kmie Mawkhar. Observed annually on the last Sunday of February, this ritual has become a significant cultural event in the region.
The event was attended by Donbokstar Kurkalang, Riew Tymmen Riewsan of Seng Khasi Kmie, Majuni Syiem, the Syiem of Marngar Syiemsad, Rubi Binong, president of Seng Khasi Marngar, and other distinguished guests.
Revived in 2017, the ritual includes prayers at the Mawkyntei monoliths, which stand along the roadside near Marngar Lake. These monoliths are believed to symbolise a mother figure who protects and safeguards the villagers of the Raid from misfortune.
Over time, the tradition had gradually faded, but Seng Khasi Kmie successfully restored it by relocating the monoliths to their original site, where villagers once gathered to offer prayers. Since its revival, the ritual has drawn increasing participation each year, reaffirming its cultural significance.
