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Behdienkhlam Festival: A Culture of Meghalaya's Pnar Tribe

  • Gauri Jain
  • 26-Apr-2024

The Behdienkhlam festival is an important religious and cultural event celebrated by the people of the Pnar Jain tribe in the Indian state of Meghalaya. This beautiful festival is deeply rooted in the traditions and beliefs of the Pnar community and is often celebrated in the Iowa region. The word "Behdienkhlam" means "repelling the plague", it signifies the main purpose of the festival, which is to ward off diseases and evil spirits. It is received with great enthusiasm and consists of unity, music, dances and details. The festival lasts for several days, usually in July, which is the rainy season in Meghalaya. One of the main features of the festival is the construction and erection of large trees, which are intricately decorated called 'rot' or 'rath'. These structures are moved out of the way by groups of people and eventually placed in the Wah Aitbar River, signifying the removal of disease and poverty from the community. The Behdienkhlam festival also features dancing, especially in the famous "Laho" dance, where people dance in a circle with sticks. The festival is an opportunity to strengthen bonds, where people come together to celebrate their culture and heritage. The celebration ends with a ceremony called the planting of a sacred tree called "Khong", which is a symbol of prosperity and health. It will be the second year. The Behdienkhlam Festival is not only a religious festival, but also an occasion where the Pnar community can assert its culture and strengthen social ties.

Behdienkhlam Festival Information:

Topic Information
Date 30th June 2024 to 3 July 2024
Festival Name Behdienkhlam Festival
Meaning / Significance Chasing away the Demon of Cholera
Observed by Jowai in Meghalaya, India.
Duration 3 - 4 Days
Rituals Beating of the roof of every house with bamboo poles
Celebration Decorations, Dance, Prayers, Offerings, Games
Frequency Annually

Origins and Significance of Behdienkhlam Festival

The Behdienkhlam Festival is a culturally significant event observed by the Pnar or Jaintia tribe in Meghalaya, India. The festival has deep historical roots, stemming from indigenous religious traditions and beliefs. It has become a prominent annual event in the region, particularly in the town of Jowai.The term "Behdienkhlam'' translates to "driving away the plague" or "chasing away evil spirits." This translation points to the festival's origin and significance—warding off disease, misfortune, and evil influences while seeking blessings for a prosperous and healthy future. The festival takes place during the monsoon season, typically in July, when the risk of diseases spreading is higher due to the wet weather conditions.The origin of the Behdienkhlam Festival is intertwined with the indigenous religion of the Pnar people, which centers on the worship of a supreme deity and reverence for nature. The festival is a communal effort to cleanse the village of any evil and to ensure good health and bountiful harvests in the coming year. It is also a plea for divine protection and a means of renewing the community's social and spiritual fabric.The central ritual of the festival involves constructing and parading large wooden structures, called "rot" or "rath," through the streets. These structures are elaborately decorated and carried by groups of men, symbolizing the collective effort to drive away negative forces. The final act of the festival involves immersing these structures in a river, typically the Wah Aitnar, which represents the washing away of all that is harmful.Another key aspect of the Behdienkhlam Festival is the planting of a sacred tree, known as "Khnong," in the center of the festival grounds. This tree represents strength, growth, and prosperity, serving as a symbolic anchor for the community's hopes and aspirations.In addition to its religious significance, the Behdienkhlam Festival is also a time for cultural expression, with traditional dances, music, and communal feasts. The "Laho" dance, where men dance in a circle holding wooden sticks, is a prominent feature of the festivities. These cultural elements not only serve to celebrate the community's heritage but also help to strengthen social bonds among the Pnar people.

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Rituals and Ceremonies of Behdienkhlam

At the heart of Behdienkhlam are elaborate rituals and ceremonies, each imbued with symbolism and tradition. One of the most famous shows involves the construction and construction of tall trees called rathongs. Carefully crafted and decorated with beautiful colors and motifs, rathongs symbolize collective strength and community spirit. The sight of the provincials successfully carrying these structures through the streets is a testament to their heritage and solidarity. Another big part of the festival is the traditional sports shows that add to the fun. Adorned in traditional costumes with feathers, beads and intricate patterns, the dancers move with grace and precision, telling stories of courage and victory. Drummers and bamboo instruments provide an infectious energy and invite the audience to join the party.

Celebration of Behdienkhlam Festival

The Behdienkhlam Festival is a vibrant and culturally significant celebration among the Pnar people of Meghalaya, India. Held annually in July, the festival is known for its colorful rituals, community spirit, and deep-rooted traditions. Here's an overview of how the Behdienkhlam Festival is celebrated:

  • Timing and Duration : Behdienkhlam takes place during the monsoon season, typically spanning three to four days in July. The timing is significant as it is associated with the agricultural cycle, marking a period of renewal and preparation for a bountiful harvest.
  • Preparation and Rituals: In the lead-up to the festival, the community prepares by cleaning their homes and gathering materials for the festival's unique rituals. A key feature of Behdienkhlam is the construction of large wooden structures known as "rot" or "rath." These structures are intricately decorated with colorful designs and are central to the festival's procession.
  • The Procession: One of the main events of Behdienkhlam is the grand procession through the town of Jowai. The decorated "rot" is carried through the streets by groups of men, accompanied by music, dance, and the chanting of traditional hymns. The procession symbolizes the community's collective effort to drive away evil spirits and cleanse the village.
  • Immersion in the River: The culmination of the procession involves immersing the "rot" in a river, usually the Wah Aitnar. This act is a symbolic gesture to wash away diseases, misfortune, and negative influences. The immersion is a joyous event, with participants celebrating the successful completion of the ritual.
  • Planting the Sacred Tree: Another significant ritual during Behdienkhlam is the planting of a sacred tree called "Khnong." This tree represents prosperity, strength, and continuity for the community. It is placed in the central festival grounds, serving as a focal point for the festivities.
  • Traditional Dances and Music: Throughout the festival, traditional dances and music play a vital role in creating a festive atmosphere. The "Laho" dance, where men dance in a circle while holding wooden sticks, is a popular part of the celebration. The rhythmic beats and melodic tunes of traditional instruments add to the energy and excitement.
  • Communal Feasts and Socializing: Behdienkhlam is also a time for communal feasts and socializing. Families and friends gather to share meals, with traditional dishes prepared for the occasion. The festival fosters a sense of community and belonging, reinforcing social bonds among the Pnar people.
  • Cultural Significance: Overall, the Behdienkhlam Festival is a unique and vibrant celebration that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Pnar people. It is a time for renewal, unity, and the reaffirmation of communal values. The festival attracts visitors from across Meghalaya and beyond, offering a glimpse into the traditional customs and beliefs of the Jaintia tribe.

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In conclusion, As the festivities draw to a close, and villagers bid farewell to another memorable Behdienkhlam, the spirit of camaraderie and cultural pride lingers on. Behdienkhlam Festival stands as a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Meghalaya's indigenous communities, showcasing the enduring power of tradition in a rapidly changing world. As we reflect on the sights, sounds, and experiences of this enchanting celebration, let us cherish the bonds of unity and diversity that unite us all. Behdienkhlam Festival is more than just an event; it is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the timeless spirit of humanity. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main rituals and ceremonies of the Behdienkhlam Festival?
One of the central rituals involves the construction and procession of wooden structures called "rathongs," symbolizing communal strength and resilience. Additionally, there are traditional dances, drumming sessions, and offerings to appease deities.
What types of traditional food are prepared during the Behdienkhlam Festival?
Traditional delicacies such as Jadoh (rice cooked with meat and spices), tungrymbai (fermented soybean paste), various sweets, and other local dishes are prepared and shared among families and friends during the festival.
What are the main rituals and ceremonies of the Behdienkhlam Festival?
One of the central rituals involves the construction and procession of wooden structures called "rathongs," symbolizing communal strength and resilience. Additionally, there are traditional dances, drumming sessions, and offerings to appease deities.
What types of traditional food are prepared during the Behdienkhlam Festival?
Traditional delicacies such as Jadoh (rice cooked with meat and spices), tungrymbai (fermented soybean paste), various sweets, and other local dishes are prepared and shared among families and friends during the festival.
What is the Behdienkhlam Festival?
Behdienkhlam Festival is an annual cultural celebration observed by the Pnar tribe in Meghalaya, India. It is marked by rituals, ceremonies, dances, and communal feasting.
When is the Behdienkhlam Festival celebrated?
Behdienkhlam Festival typically takes place in the month of July after the sowing of crops, although the exact dates may vary each year based on the lunar calendar.
When is the Behdienkhlam Festival celebrated?
Behdienkhlam Festival typically takes place in the month of July after the sowing of crops, although the exact dates may vary each year based on the lunar calendar.
What are the main rituals and ceremonies of the Behdienkhlam Festival?
One of the central rituals involves the construction and procession of wooden structures called "rathongs," symbolizing communal strength and resilience. Additionally, there are traditional dances, drumming sessions, and offerings to appease deities.
What types of traditional food are prepared during the Behdienkhlam Festival?
Traditional delicacies such as Jadoh (rice cooked with meat and spices), tungrymbai (fermented soybean paste), various sweets, and other local dishes are prepared and shared among families and friends during the festival.
What are the main rituals and ceremonies of the Behdienkhlam Festival?
One of the central rituals involves the construction and procession of wooden structures called "rathongs," symbolizing communal strength and resilience. Additionally, there are traditional dances, drumming sessions, and offerings to appease deities.
What types of traditional food are prepared during the Behdienkhlam Festival?
Traditional delicacies such as Jadoh (rice cooked with meat and spices), tungrymbai (fermented soybean paste), various sweets, and other local dishes are prepared and shared among families and friends during the festival.
What is the Behdienkhlam Festival?
Behdienkhlam Festival is an annual cultural celebration observed by the Pnar tribe in Meghalaya, India. It is marked by rituals, ceremonies, dances, and communal feasting.
When is the Behdienkhlam Festival celebrated?
Behdienkhlam Festival typically takes place in the month of July after the sowing of crops, although the exact dates may vary each year based on the lunar calendar.
What is the Behdienkhlam Festival?
Behdienkhlam Festival is an annual cultural celebration observed by the Pnar tribe in Meghalaya, India. It is marked by rituals, ceremonies, dances, and communal feasting.
When is the Behdienkhlam Festival celebrated?
Behdienkhlam Festival typically takes place in the month of July after the sowing of crops, although the exact dates may vary each year based on the lunar calendar.
What is the Behdienkhlam Festival?
Behdienkhlam Festival is an annual cultural celebration observed by the Pnar tribe in Meghalaya, India. It is marked by rituals, ceremonies, dances, and communal feasting.

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