Shillong: The rare Leh Niam Pastieh ceremony, along with traditional ritual dances, was held at Raliang village in West Jaintia Hills on February 13, marking a significant spiritual and cultural occasion organised by the Raij Raliang.
The event, which takes place only once in a decade or longer, witnessed the participation of thousands of people from Elaka Raliang and surrounding areas.
This year’s ceremony was organised at the market area of Raliang village, drawing large crowds who gathered to witness the sacred rituals and age-old traditions.
The Doloi of Elaka Raliang said that the ceremony is a unique experience in the lifetime of a Doloi, as one may get the opportunity to take part in it only once, or at most twice, during an entire term of service.
Unlike annual rituals, he explained, Leh Niam Pastieh is performed only once in 10 to 15 years.
He added that multiple clans took part in sacrificial offerings as part of the ritual proceedings and informed that a grand community feast would follow the completion of the ceremony.
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The event was attended by Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar as chief guest.
Among those present were Nujorki Sungoh, Doloi of Elaka Raliang C Lyngdoh, Pastieh Committee Chairman E Lyngdoh, Secretary I Suchiang, along with other Dolois, MDCs, village heads and prominent citizens from different parts of the Jaintia Hills.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister lauded the Raij Raliang for safeguarding and continuing ancestral customs and traditions.
He said such rituals and traditional dances play a vital role in protecting indigenous identity and preserving the cultural heritage of the people, expressing pride and happiness at witnessing the living traditions of the community.
