Our Bureau
SHILLONG/NEW DELHI, Nov 23: The 126th Seng Kut Snem celebration of Seng Khasi Kmie (SKK), Mawkhar, was observed with solemnity, dignity, and deep spiritual reverence on Sunday.
This year’s event also marked the conclusion of the year-long commemoration of the 125th anniversary of the Seng, celebrated throughout the past year. The day began with the ceremonial hoisting of the Seng Khasi flag by SKK president O Pyngrope, followed by invocation and blessings led by the Riew Tymmen Riew San (Council of Elders) at the Seng Khasi Hall, Mawkhar.
The celebrations continued with the traditional cultural parade, which commenced from Madan Iew Rynghep (Fire Brigade Ground). Various wings of Seng Khasi and Seiñ Raij showcased their tableaux, accompanied by groups of male dancers, traditional musicians, and enthusiastic participants dressed in vibrant traditional attire.
The procession resonated with the beats of drums, gongs, nakra, tangmuri, and the rhythmic chanting of phawar. The parade made its way towards the monument commemorating the 125th anniversary of the organisation’s founding.
The main formal gathering, marked by spiritual solemnity, was held at Weiking Ground, Jaiaw. Members from across the Hynñiewtrep Hynñiewskum Hynñiaw Wasa community assembled to hear the keynote addresses delivered by Païa B Synrem, Assistant General Secretary of SKK, and Puramon Kynjing, Dolloi of Elaka Jowai and President of Seng Khynnah Seng Khasi Seiñ Raij Lympung.
This was followed by an invocation performed by Skor Jala, Chairman of the Riew Tymmen Riew San Committee, along with fellow elders. Traditional refreshments — khaweh and khaw-kheiñ — were also distributed to the crowd.
A key highlight of the celebration was the felicitation ceremony, where Seng Khasi Kmie honoured several respected elders and former leaders, including Spiton Kharakor, RT Rymbai, HO Mawrei, and the late Hipshon Roy Kharshiing and the late Lakhon Shullai.
The programme witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Cabinet Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, Dr. Balajied Singh Syiem — Syiem of Hima Khyrim — and Ainam Manik Syiem, Syiem of Hima Mylliem, among others. The day-long event culminated with spirited performances of traditional dance, music, and cultural displays presented by various units of Seng Khasi and Seiñ Raij, bringing the celebration to a vibrant close.
Seng Kut Snem, a cultural movement rooted in the preservation of indigenous faith, customs, and identity, traces its origins to 12 August 1899, when 16 Khasi youths founded the Seng Khasi.
The vision was to safeguard the ancient Khasi religion, cultural heritage, and language from external influences during the colonial era. Since then, the movement has grown significantly, inspiring generations of Khasi youth to take pride in their distinct cultural legacy.
Delhi joins celebration
Meanwhile in Delhi, Seng Khasi Delhi Unit marked the day with a call for the preservation of the indigenous faith, culture, and identity of the Khasi people.
The day began with a meeting addressed by the member of the National Commission for Women, Delina Khongdup, and Seng Khasi Delhi Unit member Marvel Sungoh. Large number of Khasi people from various parts of the NCR including New Delhi participated.
The day was marked with a meeting of the Khasi people, hoisting of the flag by a senior lady Member of the unit and cultural programmes. Hundreds of men, women, and youth—dressed in traditional attire—participated with devotion and pride.
The colourful meeting showcased the diverse expressions of Khasi culture depicting the community’s simple yet profound way of life. Special prayers were offered for the enduring spirit of the movement and the significance of Khasi heritage.
Reflecting on the sixteen youths who founded Seng Khasi 126 years ago, Delina expressed deep gratitude for their foresight and resilience. Their sacrifices should be carried forward in future too, she said.
With 126 years behind it, Seng Khasi reaffirmed its mission which remains unchanged. The mission is to uphold the guiding principles of ‘Tip Briew Tip Blei’ and ‘Kamai ia ka Hok’, and to continue preserving the essence of Khasi identity for generations to come.
