Shillong, Nov 23: The followers of indigenous Khasi Faith – The Seng Khasi – on Tuesday celebrated the Seng Kut Snem festival in Shillong city amidst Covid-19 protocols. Due to the pandemic related SOPs, the traditional procession through the city did not happen this year.
Nonetheless, the 122nd Seng Kut Snem was celebrated with as much zeal and vigour like any previous years at the Weiking ground in Jaiaw which saw MP Prof. Rakesh Sinha present as the chief guest to witness the cultural festival along with Cabinet ministers Sniawbhalang Dhar and Sanbor Shullai and MLAs Eugeneson Lyngdoh, Adelbert Nongrum among several other dignitaries.
The Seng Kut Snem is a festival to mark the Seng Khasi Movement to preserve, protect and uphold indigenous Khasi culture, which is also referred to as renaissance and awakening of the Khasi community.
16 young Khasi men formed an organisation called the Khasi Young Men’s Association on November 23, 1899 to preserve and safeguard the indigenous way of life also known as Niam Trai Niam Tre after continued assault on the indigenous faith during the British rule.
The first anniversary celebration of the Khasi Young Men’s Association was called – “Seng Kut Snem”. Since then the occasion has been celebrated every year to commemorate the movement. It was only in 1901, the association was renamed Seng Khasi.
At the same time, the festival marks the start of new year for the Khasi Tribe, which traditionally has been on November 24. Thus, the celebration is not just to usher in a New Year but a form of Community Prayer for protection of the distinct identity of the Khasi Race.
During the celebration elders impart oral teachings, publish books and writings and conduct many programs about the traditional faith, beliefs, customs, behavior etiquette and the Khasi culture as bestowed by the ancient Khasi predecessors.
MP Sinha praised the Seng Khasi for standing tall against all odds and termed its over 100 year of ‘culturally positive journey’ with strong philosophical foundation as an example to be emulated by communities across the world.
A unique feature this year was the musical rendition of “Sare Jahan Se Accha” by a group of young musicians, performed using the traditional musical instruments, to mark the 75 years of India’s Independence and 50 years of Meghalaya’s statehood.
