Call to preserve indigenous culture while promoting mutual respect among different faiths
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 13: Drums and tangmuris resonated across Weiking Ground as the 115th edition of Shad Suk Mynsiem concluded on Monday, marking the end of a three-day celebration of Khasi culture, tradition, and gratitude.
Altogether 1,810 dancers—964 men and 846 women—participated on the final day, presenting a vibrant display rooted in the Khasi way of life and its deep connection with nature and heritage.
The festival began on Saturday with the ceremonial ‘Ngi Nohkjat’. Celebrated annually in April, Shad Suk Mynsiem, or the “Dance of Peaceful Hearts”, signifies the beginning of a new agricultural season and serves as a thanksgiving for blessings while fostering hope for the future.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Arts and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai, and other dignitaries attended the event.
At the core of the festival is the symbolic dance reflecting Khasi matrilineal traditions, where women take the central position as custodians of lineage, while men form a protective circle around them. Though the dance is ancient, it was formally organised by the Seng Khasi in 1911 at Weiking Ground.
Seng Khasi Kmie (SKK) vice-president, PD Nongrum, underscored the need to preserve indigenous culture while promoting mutual respect among different faiths.
He expressed gratitude to the state government for its support and noted that the festival also contributes to cultural tourism.
He observed that there has been a steady increase in involvement, with even children as young as five to six years taking part.
Nongrum also stressed that preserving culture and religion is key to maintaining the community’s identity.
On issues of minority status and religious conversion, he said the focus remains on strengthening one’s own cultural roots while respecting those of others.
He emphasised peaceful coexistence, cautioning that divisions arise when any group considers its beliefs superior to others.
