By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 24: The annual Raid Mylliem ritual, a sacred tradition of the Khasi community, got under way here on Saturday.
The ritual, rooted in ancient customs, is led by the clans of the ‘5 Kur 11 Kur’ along with community members.
Held every year in early February, this year’s observance was rescheduled to May.
The ceremony started at Mawnarian and will conclude with a final ritual at Lum Shulong (Shillong Peak), followed by three days of traditional ritual dances.
The purpose of the ritual is to seek blessings from God the Creator for the protection of Lei Ryngkew Basa—the land, its people, the Hima (traditional Khasi state) and the local economy. It is a prayer for continued peace and harmony across the region, from Bisi to Bhoi Rymbong.
Despite the absence of some traditional leaders (Myntri), the ritual is being carried out successfully, thanks to the efforts of Leading Lyngdoh Myntri Syngteng Nongdhar, the 5 Kur clans and local supporters.