Hundreds take part in procession to highlight glory of Khasi faith

Shillong: The glory, grandeur and solemn dignity of the indigenous Khasi faith and culture was highlighted as hundreds of youth, men, women and children, attired in traditional regalia, took to the city streets on Thursday to celebrate the annual Seng Kut Snem Festival, marking the 124th foundation day of the Seng Khasi Movement.
The colourful ceremonial procession highlighted the diverse and rich Khasi tradition through folk music and tableaux depicting various facets of the indigenous lifestyle.
The procession, which started from the Fire Brigade Ground, culminated at the Weiking Ground, where traditional dances were held and prayers offered by indigenous priests.
The annual Seng Kut Snem Festival is celebrated to commemorate the launching of the Seng Khasi Movement to preserve, protect and uphold indigenous Khasi religion and culture, central to which is the virtue of honesty.
“Seng Kut Snem celebrates the Seng Khasi Movement and the efforts of the Seng Khasi to preserve, protect and uphold indigenous Khasi faith and culture,” chief minister Conrad K Sangma said in a social media post even as he extended his best wishes to the citizens of the state on the occasion.
It was on August 23, 1899, that 16 brave and nationalist Khasi youth formed the Seng Khasi to protect their indigenous faith, rich culture and unique language in the face of British onslaught.
Since then, the movement has gained momentum imbibing a sense of pride among the youth in their rich heritage which is unique in the world.
This historical movement of the people against suppression of their age-old faith and culture began through the organization of the Seng Khasi which is the torch-bearer of the indigenous Khasi faith — Niamtre — and the traditional culture.