SHAD SUK MYNSIEM

As the chill of winter recedes and the charm of spring descends on the Khasi Hills, it is marked by one of the community’s biggest festivals. Shad Suk Mysiem is the khasi way of offering their thanks to the creators for all the blessings and bountiful harvests received – characterized by many symbolic rituals, dances and the best of traditional apparel... Shad Suk Mynseim (“the dance of peaceful hearts”) is held during the month of April. Spring is symbolic as a season of rebirth, as in the case of many societies. It signifies the beginning of the new cycle during which new seeding are planted. Shad Suk Mynseim is an agrarian festival and celebrates the optimism of the coming year. The biggest value highlights of Shad Suk Mynseim is the dance and accompanying music. The layout of the dancers can teach observant viewers a few things about the distinctive matrilineal societies that celebrate the occasion. The dance of the maiden reflects their role in the community. They are in the middle – the keepers of the heart, home, and the lineage of the clan. The turbaned men in ceremonial apparels are the protectors, they surround the female dancers armed with waitlam (swords) and symphiah (whisk). The arrows in the quiver represents the quality of a man. The role of the man in Hynniewtrep society is to be the advisor, leader and protector – represented in the nuances of the Shad Suk Mynseim rituals. The female dancers are clad in the best skills, and adorned with gold, coral, and silver accessories. The crown represents dignity and modesty. Chastity of the dancer is represented by the lasubon flower, an important totem for the Hynniewtrep clans. Visitors of the Shad Suk Mynsiem festival can also learn about Niam Khasi and the role of the seng Khasi – an organisation that keeping alive the old traditions and helping the indigenous beliefs and custom flourish into modern times. As the Khasis negotiate many cultural crossroads – this is one of the best ways to see the beautiful and ancient heritage, beliefs, and motifs of the community on one single stage.