8 Most Famous Fairs and Festivals in Meghalaya You Must See

If you think the northeastern state of Meghalaya is all about thunderclouds and vast green landscapes, it's not! The fascinating culture, its caves and the magnificent charm of lush green forests and cascading waterfalls make Meghalaya a perfect destination. Meghalaya celebrations of culture are held in great splendor where the elders pass on their traditions to the younger generations and make them more aware of their own culture.

The word Meghalaya refers to the abode of clouds. While there are many festivals in this state, read on to know more about the most popular Meghalaya festivals that are part of their tradition.

Festivals and Culture of Meghalaya :

Making a plan to visit Meghalaya during a famous festival is essential to experience the rich tradition and tradition of Meghalaya. Here are some famous Meghalaya celebrations that you must know about.

1. Behdinklam Festival:

Behdeenkhlam is a festival in Meghalaya celebrated for four consecutive days by the Jaintia family of the Niamtre religion. It is observed before the time of sowing, which is believed to be an effective protection against evils. In this ceremony, there are many rituals and sacrifices that are performed in a way that is considered a ritual. For example, members of the Janitia clan play a game similar to soccer but with a wooden ball called datlavakor. It is believed to bring luck and wealth to the winners of the game. Bright and colorful events attract tourists as well as locals to Meghalaya.

Important attraction: A large number of bamboo structures are tall and decorated with tinsel and colored paper.

When: July.

Where: Jaintia Hills, and Jowai town.

Festival Duration: It is held for four days.

2. Festival of Bangla:

The Vangala festival marks the end of the farming season and is celebrated with the Garo people of Meghalaya. This festival is thanks to Misi-e-Gilpa-Saljong-Galapa, the god of fertility. Also known as the 100 Drums Festival, men and women dance gracefully while beating the nagara. Women wear colorful dresses made of silk, blouses and feather head wraps, while men usually wear dhotis, half-coats and turbans.

Main attraction: More than a hundred men playing drums.

When: September to December.

Festival Duration: Two days.

3. Seng Kut Snem:

Seng Kut Snem is a festival that celebrates the culture and faith of the Khasi faith and highlights the importance of this Seng Khasi movement. On November 23, 1899, sixteen young men formed the Khasi Young Men's Association to protect the traditional way of life that had been attacked by the British. So, Seng Kut Snem was originally marked as the first-anniversary of the Khasi youth group. The community was renamed Seng Khasi in the year 1901 and is held every year to commemorate the event. It is an opportunity instead for the congregation to pray, upholding the special character of the Khasi. The Khasi race is different from New Year celebrations in other communities. Elders give oral lessons and perform demonstrations on the traditional beliefs and beliefs of the Khasi tradition as well as manners, behavioral patterns and practices during festivals.

Important attraction: Thousands of people dressed in traditional costumes come to celebrate the festival.

When: November.

Where: Shillong.

Duration of Festival: One day.

4. Shad Suk Mainseem Festival:

Shad Suk Mainseem is an important festival celebrated by Khasi clans. It is recognized by the Jaintia as well as the Garo clans. This festival is celebrated by the people of Meghalaya every year in April. The festival is also known as 'Move of Happy Hearts' which is a wonderful celebration of movement and invites everyone in the Khasis to participate in the dance festival. Another name for the festival is Shad Pur and it is celebrated for three days. Shad Suk Mainseem refers to a fetish cult that portrays men as cultivators who grow crops and nurture and nurse. Women represent the bearers of seeds.

Important attraction: A colorful dance, performed at the Viking grounds in Shillong.

When: April.

Where: Viking Grounds

Festival Duration: Three days.

5. Nongkrem Dance Festival:

It is one of the most famous festivals organized by the members of the Khasi group, the Nongkrem festival. Every year this festival is celebrated in Smith with pomp and gaiety and the celebration is organized by Siam. Ka Siyam Saad was the ruler of the Khasi kingdom and was considered the patron of ceremonies and people. This ceremony is a sign of good luck, good harvest and peace for the people. The men dance the Shad Mistih, surrounded by the young women who dance the Shad Kinthi. Shad Kintei. The circle of men forming around the female represents the male's power and protection over the female. Many people from all over the world visit Meghalaya to participate in the Nongkrem festival.

Main attraction: Traditional dress, delicious Khasi food, Shaad Mistih dance.

When: Autumn.

Where: Smith.

Festival duration: Five days.

6. Shud Shukra:

Shad Sukra (Shad) is an annual major festival celebrated by the Jaintia people in Meghalaya every year before the start of the sowing season. The seeds are planted after the start of the festival. Both genders are invited to the ceremony in traditional attire adorned with golden ornaments. They pray to protect their crops from natural calamities and ensure a successful and healthy harvest. Also, both women participate in rituals, dancing and dancing to music with flutes and drums.

Key attraction: Dance, rituals and music with flute and drums.

When: April/May.

Location: West Jaintia Hills, Jowai town.

Festival Duration: It lasts for three days.

7. Cherry Blossom Festival:

The chilly wind can ruffle your hair in every part of India during the month of November, however, Meghalaya can delight in the beauty of pink cherry blossoms. The beautiful flowers mark the onset of Indian autumn by turning the state capital as well as the East Khasi hills pink. The festival is a celebration of the typical autumn flowering and blossoming of the Himalayan cherry blossoms in November. It is an opportunity to experience the craftsmanship and artistry of the region, as well as many activities like beauty pageants and live music performances as well as storytelling sessions, cycle rallies etc.

Main attraction: Along with cherry blossoms, rock concerts and bike rallies, there are also dance shows.

When: Mid-November.

Where: Shillong.

8. Shillong Autumn Festival:

One of the major festivals in India that heralds the start of the autumn festival season is Shillong. It is a significant Indian cultural festival that is most well-known in Shillong and highlights the vibrant culture of the nation. It has grown in popularity as a tourist destination, turning Shillong's capital city into a center of excitement and enjoyment. Along with the merchandise, there are events like wine festivals, fashion exhibitions, and food displays to enjoy. to provide entertainment for guests and locals.

Main draws: melodic renditions A handcraft exhibition, a wine and food festival, and floral displays are all included.

When: from November to October.

Location: Shillong.

The festival lasts for one day.

Both visitors and fans of tradition can have a unique experience in the stunning state of Meghalaya. Meghalaya celebrations will enhance your trip and provide you with an understanding of the unique and different customs practiced by the natives. Do not forget to tell your friends about these details. Tell us if you found this post useful.

Q & A:

1. What is the Indian state of Meghalaya well-known for?

Answer: A vast range of spices, therapeutic plants, vegetables, and fruits may be found in the lovely state of Meghalaya.

It is renowned for its approximately 325 species of orchids.

2. What must-have things should I buy when I travel to Meghalaya?

Here are some facts about this amazing state that will help you make the most of your travel memories if you're planning a trip there.

Scottish cloth.

Organic products.

Bamboo based handicrafts.

Shawls, stealing and stealing.

3. What is the staple food you can get in Meghalaya?

Answer: Available in different varieties and styles, rice is a common staple in Meghalaya. There are many popular savory curry recipes that rice is an ideal accompaniment to. Pumaloi is the most loved rice dish from Meghalaya.