Shillong (Meghalaya), March 7 :The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC)proudly inaugurated the highly anticipated Monolith Festival today, on March 7, 2024, at the iconic Khasi Heritage Village, Mawphlang.The festival, a vibrant extravaganza spanning three days from March 7th to 9th, 2024, is set to commemorate 54 Chieftainships, promising an enchanting immersion into the rich tapestry of Khasi culture, featuring an array of art, craft, cuisine, music, and dance. People from all walks of life, domestic and international tourists thronged the venue at Mawphlang, also famous for its sacred groves forests located opposite the Khasi Heritage Village.
The inaugural ceremony witnessed the esteemed presence of notable dignitaries, adding an aura of grandeur to the event. Among the distinguished guests was Prestone Tynsong, Deputy Chief minister, who attended the occasion as the Chief Guest, alongside Pyniaid Sing Syiem, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of KHADC.
The ceremony also welcomed MDCs and MLAs, Chiefs of various Himas, headmen among other esteemed personalities.
Prestone Tynsong, Deputy Chief Minister in his address said, “I acknowledge the efforts made by the KHADC by organizing this festival which celebrates the rich culture and tradition in a way established by our forefathers. As a government, we are working together with all three Autonomous District Councils (Khasi, Jaintia and Garo) and we feel that it is through their existence and hard work, under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India, that the richness of our culture and tradition will continue to thrive. I urge the KHADC to continue holding this festival every year, as there are many who want to learn the ways of our people, to document and show as an example to the country and the world.”
Scattered across Meghalaya’s green hills stand the mysterious and beautiful monoliths. These giant stones, carved from single pieces, are silent reminders of a time long ago. Some stand alone, reaching for the sky, while others huddle together. Their sizes vary, with some towering like giants and others lying flat on the ground. The flat horizontal stones, or dolmens, weremeant for women, while the upright ones, or menhirs, were for men. Each of them with a story of their own.
The Monolith Festival is a vibrant celebration dedicated to honoring the rich cultural heritage of the Khasi tribe, while simultaneously providing a dynamic platform for local artisans, craftsmen, and performers to highlight their talents. Over the course of three days, attendees can experiencecaptivating dance performances like Shad Kruh Ram, Shad Suk Mynsiem, Shad Shutwait, Shad Thma, Shad Shoh Kba, Shad Nguh Meikha, Shad Krud Kba, Shad Mastieh, Shad Seng Khasi, Shad Kiewiing, Shad Pdah, among others, and theatrical skits like Tem Sur Kdor & Phawar Shoh Kba, that vividly portray the stories and traditions of the Khasi people.
The festival also displays the soulful music of the Khasi community, featuring traditional instruments and melodies by artists such as Lamphang Syiemlieh, Desmond Sun &;Band, Pynter Orchestra, Kyntiewlin Mawphniang, Ri Maram Folk Akademi, Ki Sur Ksing na Lyngam, Dalariti, Summersalt, and more. Attendees can also admire the vibrant display of traditional Khasi attire, highlighting the beauty and diversity of their cultural dress through a fashion show.
Additionally, the festival offers a culinary adventure with the opportunity to savor the unique flavors of traditional Khasi cuisine and local beverages at the food courts located at the event.
While addressing the gathering at the event and expressing his delight at the inauguration of the Monolith Festival, Chief Executive Member, KHADC, Pyniaid Sing Syiem stated, “This festival is an opportunity to showcase our rich culture and tradition. We feel the need to have a platform to showcase the rich and unique Khasi culture and this festival will display our traditional system of governance, clan system, rites, and rituals to the rest of the world. Khasi culture, as we know, has been thriving for approximately two hundred years taking into consideration, with the coming of missionaries to our state. We should remember the sacrifices and contributions of our ancestors and forefathers, as a community that awakens thememories of our ancestors is a thriving community. We will also work towards strengthening the Khasi Social Customs Lineage Act, 1997.”
As the Monolith Festival unfolds, it promises to be a memorable journey into the heart of Khasi traditions, fostering cultural appreciation and unity. The event stands as a testament to the Council as well as the government’s commitment to displaying and preserving the unique cultural tapestry of the Khasi tribe.
