SHILLONG: The Shad Suk Mynsiem, the most significant thanksgiving dance of the Seng Khasi which is organized annually during the spring season, reached its conclusion today at Lympung Weiking, Jaiaw in Shillong.
This traditional dance, which first commenced in 1911, serves as a symbol of deep reverence and gratitude to the Almighty for the numerous blessings bestowed upon the community.
This year witnessed a notable increase in the number of participants, signaling that today’s youth are increasingly recognizing the dignity and value of their traditional heritage and customs.
According to the official count, a total of 1,810 dancers participated in the festivities, comprising 964 males and 846 females.
Member of the Seng Khasi Kmie Rangpher Rynjah observed that when compared to earlier times when only about 10 to 20 people participated, the current involvement of 300 to 400 youth demonstrates a growing love and pride for the sacred cultural legacy inherited from their ancestors.
Meanwhile, Vice President of the Seng Khasi Kmie DL Nongbri stated that the Seng Khasi stands firm in its commitment to preserve and promote the customs, traditional music, and songs that former colonial powers once attempted to eradicate.
He noted a beautiful development in the cultural movement where traditional musicians are no longer just the elders; young children and teenagers aged 18 to 19 have become proficient in playing the drum (ksing) and the flute (tangmuri) through various training schools that have brought about a significant transformation.
He further added that this particular dance consists of seven specific stages or “skits” that reflect the solemnity and deep spiritual philosophy of the Hynniewtrep people, noting that it differs from the Shad Nongkrem which consists of 23 stages.
Rangpher Rynjah emphasized that Shad Suk Mynsiem is an ancient dance that existed long before the arrival of Christianity. It is a dance performed by the Raids, Himas, and various villages to offer prayers and thanksgiving to God. He explained that before entering the dancing arena, meticulous religious rituals are performed to focus the mind, covering everything from the music to the attire of the dancers, who wear gold and silver ornaments carefully preserved as the great wealth of the community.
The Shad Suk Mynsiem Committee of the Seng Kmie Mawkhar, represented by Vice PresidentsbDL Nongbri and PD Nongrum, along with member Rangpher Rynjah, expressed their gratitude to all who participated.
They also highlighted that the dance has gained global recognition, attracting dignitaries such as the Ambassador of Belgium and various international researchers.
This global interest serves as a great support in maintaining the unique identity of the Khasi people. The leaders of the Seng Khasi concluded with a message stating that if customs and traditions are lost, the unique identity of the community will also vanish, and therefore, one must always take pride in their own heritage.
