Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 111/23

MEGHALAYA GOVERNOR ATTENDS BEHDIENKHLAM FESTIVAL

The Governor of Meghalaya Shri Phagu Chauhan today attended the Behdieñkhlam festival in Jowai in the presence of the Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court, Justice Shri. Sanjib Banerjee.

Amid offering of prayers and chanting of couplets, the grand festival culminated at the Aitnar sacred pool, around 65km from Shillong. Together with thousands of faithful of Ka Niamtre, the Governor witnessed the festivities on the concluding day of the festival and showed interest in the religious rituals associated with the event.

In his brief address, the Governor while praising the rich cultural heritage of the State, appreciated the grand celebration of Behdeinkhlam which will go a long way in keeping alive the culture and traditions of people, he said. The Governor also expressed hope that the festival will bring unity, peace and prosperity to the people and the state as a whole.

Behdeinkhlam, which literally means chasing away the demon of plagues, is celebrated annually in the last week of June or the first week of July - after the sowing period is over - to appease the harvest gods. The festival, organised by the Sein Raij Jowai has been underway since July 6.