By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 6: The annual Pomblang Iewduh festival of Hima Khyrim witnessed auspicious signs and omens during the ritual sacrifices on Thursday, following the ceremonial offering performed by the Duhalia Rangbah (chief priest), who conducted the traditional sacrifice at Lum Pomblang, Iewduh, Smit.
Speaking to reporters, the Syiem Khynnah (deputy chief) of Hima Khyrim, Habapan Syiem, said that the grand thanksgiving was first offered to the Almighty Creator in the early hours of the morning.
He noted that divine presence was felt since the previous evening during the preparatory rituals held two nights prior to the main Pomblang and the day’s traditional dance ceremony.
The Syiem Khynnah also extended an open invitation to the people of the Khasi-Jaintia Hills to witness the continuation of the ceremonies on Friday — the Pomblang Lyngka, which will be held near the Iing Sad and Iing Sunon (traditional residence of the Syiem of Hima Khyrim) and accompanied by traditional dances.
Meanwhile, Lyngdoh of Raid Nongkrem, Pyniaidsuk Lyngdoh explained that the Pomblang Iewduh ritual is an essential part of the thanksgiving ceremony to Lei Shyllong, a tradition that dates back to the founding of Hima Shyllong during the reign of Queen Pahsyntiew.
He added that the prayers, worship, and offerings were carried out completely and faithfully in accordance with ancient customs.
Lyngdoh further informed that preparations for the festival began weeks in advance, starting with the ritual cleansing of the Iing Sad.
This year’s cleansing was performed facing east, followed by the sait bom (ritual washing), the offering of the sacrificial goat, and culminating in Thursday’s main ceremony.
As in previous years, the sacrifice was followed by a grand public procession from the Iing Sad, marked by the rhythmic sounds of drums and flutes. The event was further animated by vigorous dances performed by young men brandishing swords in perfect sync with the music.
Upon reaching Lum Pomblang, the central religious rites were performed, and after interpreting the omens which were deemed highly favorable and the sacrificial meat (dkhot) was distributed.
The ceremony concluded with the Shad Mastieh, a traditional dance performed between the Sohblei and the Duhalia Rangbah, followed by another dance between the Deputy Syiem of Hima Khyrim and the Syiem of Hima Mylliem, symbolizing brotherhood and unity between the two kingdoms.
The day’s festivities ended with joyful dances before the participants returned to the Iing Sad and Iing Sunon, marking the completion of the sacred observances of the Pomblang Iewduh.
