SHILLONG, NOV 10: Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar has emphasised that conservation of nature has always been an integral part of the cultural ethos of the tribal communities in Meghalaya, particularly among the Khasi people who have traditionally lived in harmony with forests, land and natural resources, treating them with reverence as gifts of the Creator. He called for collective responsibility to continue safeguarding Meghalaya’s rich biodiversity, forests and wildlife for the future generations.
He was addressing the commemorative Monolith Installation Ceremony at Lum Sohpetbneng, as part of the year-long Quasquicentennial (125 years) Celebration of the Seng Khasi Movement.
Lum Sohpetbneng, known as the “Umbilical Heavenly Peak”, holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the Khasi-Pnar community, symbolising the sacred connection between Heaven and Earth in ancient Khasi belief.
As part of the 125-year milestone of Seng Khasi, more than 41 monoliths have been erected at the summit of this sacred peak by different circles and units to commemorate the historic legacy of the Seng Khasi Movement, which was founded on 23rd November 1899 in Shillong under the guidance of U Babu Jeebon Roy.
For 125 years, Seng Khasi has been preserving and promoting the Niam Khasi faith, traditional values, language, rituals, and cultural identity of the Hynñiewtrep people.
The Governor lauded the Seng Khasi Movement as one of India’s oldest and most respected indigenous cultural preservation efforts, and praised the community for protecting ancestral wisdom despite the pressures of changing times.
He highlighted that monoliths are not just stones, but sacred symbols representing continuity, strength and the living memory of the ancestors. He also stressed on the importance of harmonising modern progress with cultural identity and spiritual consciousness.
His excellency congratulated Seng Khasi on this historic milestone and expressed confidence that the 125-year celebration will further strengthen cultural pride, unity and the preservation of ancient heritage, aligning with the national vision of Viksit Bharat grounded in cultural roots and civilisational values.
Also present during the programme were deputy chief minister Prestone Tynsong, education minister Lahkmen Rymbui, arts & culture minister Sanbor Shulla and participation from traditional custodians, elders, community leaders and various units from across the Khasi – Jaintia Hills.
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