By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 9: In a historic ceremony marking its quasi-centennial celebration, the Seng Khasi Kmie (SKM) on Sunday erected 40 commemorative monoliths, known as “Mawbynna Sahnam,” at Lum Sohpetbneng — a sacred site deeply revered in Khasi tradition.
More than 40 circles and units of the Seng Khasi and Sein Raij contributed to the installation of the monoliths during the solemn and symbolic event at the spiritual summit. The SKM said the erection of these monoliths would further consecrate the sacred site and foster “positive energy, unity, and brotherhood” among the people of Meghalaya.
The commemorative event was graced by Governor CH Vijayashankar, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, and Arts and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai, along with several traditional heads and dignitaries.
In his address, the Governor stated that the Seng Khasi Movement is one of India’s oldest and most respected indigenous cultural preservation efforts. He praised the community for protecting ancestral wisdom despite the pressures of changing times.
Vijayashankar highlighted that monoliths are not just stones, but sacred symbols representing continuity, strength and the living memory of the ancestors. He stressed the importance of harmonising modern progress with cultural identity and spiritual consciousness.
He said the conservation of nature has always been an integral part of the cultural ethos of the tribal communities in Meghalaya, particularly among the Khasi people who have traditionally lived in harmony with forests, land and natural resources, treating them with reverence as gifts of the Creator.
The Governor called for collective responsibility to continue safeguarding Meghalaya’s rich biodiversity, forests and wildlife for the future generations.
He congratulated Seng Khasi on this historic milestone and expressed confidence that the 125th year celebration will further strengthen cultural pride, unity and the preservation of ancient heritage, aligning with the national vision of “Viksit Bharat” grounded in cultural roots and civilisational values.
Earlier, SKM cultural secretary Hammarsing L Kharhmar said monoliths and megaliths are integral to Khasi culture and heritage, representing the community’s deep connection to its ancestors and spiritual traditions. “With this ceremony, the SKM continues its responsibility of preserving this ancient tradition at one of the most sacred sites,” Kharhmar stated. He added that the initiative is not only an act of cultural preservation but also a message of inspiration to other indigenous faith groups beyond Meghalaya to “strengthen their own roots and traditions.”
Founded in 1899 by 16 young men, the Seng Khasi Movement has now grown to over 300 branches. Kharhmar noted that the 125-year-old SKM is “probably the oldest indigenous faith organisation in India and even in the world.”
Describing Lum Sohpetbneng as a place of “deep spiritual significance,” Kharhmar said it symbolises the origin of the Khasi people and their enduring connection to ancestral beliefs and values.
Among those present were the Dalloi of Jowai, Puramon Kynjing; the Doloi of Nangbah, Moon Garod; and the Syiem of Hima Mylliem, Ainam Manik Syiem; along with other traditional leaders and representatives from various indigenous faith organisations.
The year-long 125th anniversary celebrations will culminate with the 126th Seng Kut Snem — the annual foundation day — to be held on November 23 at the Weiking Ground in Jaiaw, Shillong.
