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.
Also Check Other Holiday in July 2024:
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.
Also Read:
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.