Seng Khasi 125th anniversary: 40 monoliths erected at Lum Sohpetbneng in Meghalaya

Guwahati: In a powerful tribute to Khasi heritage, community members gathered at Lum Sohpetbneng on November 9 to install 40 commemorative monoliths, marking 125 years of the Seng Khasi movement.

The ceremony, led by Seng Khasi Kmie along with units of Seng Khasi and Seiñ Raij, stood as a key moment in the organisation’s year-long anniversary celebrations.

Founded in 1899 by sixteen visionary youths in Shillong, Seng Khasi began as a cultural movement to preserve and promote the Khasi Way of Life.

Over more than a century, it has evolved into a dynamic institution with over 300 branches across Meghalaya, dedicated to protecting traditional philosophy, rituals, and identity.

Governor C.H. Vijayashankar, attending as the chief guest, lauded the organisation’s steadfast efforts to uphold indigenous knowledge systems and foster unity among the Khasi people.

He was joined by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Art and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai, and several traditional leaders from Jowai, Nangbah, and Mylliem, all reaffirming their support for the community’s cultural revival.

Atop Lum Sohpetbneng, revered as the mythical origin of the Khasi people, the monoliths stood as enduring symbols of ancestral wisdom and collective pride. Organisers explained that the initiative represents not just remembrance, but a renewal of the community’s spiritual bond in the face of modern challenges.

The 125th anniversary festivities will culminate on November 23 with the 126th Seng Kut Snem celebration at Weiking Ground, Jaïaw, Shillong, honouring generations of Khasi resilience and faith.