Jowai(Meghalaya) July 9: The four-day ‘Badenkhlam’ festival of the Pnar people concluded here today with Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma joining as chief guest, lending a regional spotlight to one of Meghalaya’s most colorful cultural celebrations.
Held annually in July, Badenkhlam — which means “driving away the plague” — is observed to pray for a good harvest, protection from disease, and peace in the community. This year’s edition saw the streets of Jowai come alive with processions of _rots_, the tall, intricately decorated wooden structures carried to the beat of drums and traditional music before their ritual immersion in a sacred water body.
Thousands of people in traditional Pnar attire took part in the final day’s events. The traditional football match _Datlawakor_, played with a wooden ball, drew large crowds as teams competed in a spirited display that is a festival highlight.
Addressing the gathering, CM Sarma lauded the Pnar community for preserving its heritage and said festivals like Badenkhlam strengthen the cultural fabric of the Northeast. He added that such traditions reflect the unity and resilience of the region’s people.
More than a religious observance, Badenkhlam served this week as a reunion for families and a showcase for visitors who came to witness the rituals, dance and community spirit of Jowai.
With the immersion of the ‘rots’ this evening, the festival closed on a note of prayer for health, prosperity and harmony in the year ahead.
