Seng Khasi Movement

The Seng Khasi movement is a socio-cultural movement in the northeast Indian state of Meghalaya. The movement supports the protection and preservation of Khasi culture and Niam Khasi, their traditional religion.

History
The Seng Khasi movement began in Mawkhar, Shillong on November 23, 1899. It was founded by 16 young Khasi men under the guidance and mentorship of U Babu Jeebon Roy, an educationist, entrepreneur and advocate of indigenous beliefs and culture of the time. The sixteen founders were concerned about the loss of traditional Khasi culture and values due to the influence of British colonial rule and Christian missionaries.

The Seng Khasi started with one unit in 1899, but today there are over 300 branches spread across the Khasi Hills. The Seng Khasi are highly respected and universally acknowledged as custodians of the Khasi Way of Life. The Seng Khasi movement is one of the oldest and most respected cultural preservation movements in India, particularly among Tribal communities.

It has persevered for over a century now to preserve the ancient traditions, cultural dances, traditional music, arts and crafts of the Khasis. The Seng Khasi also lays great emphasis on keeping alive Khasi spirituality and the ancient wisdom of the indigenous faith.

The Seng Khasi movement remains an important and influential force in the Khasi Hills region, and continues to play a key role in creating awareness and pride in the Khasi culture and religion. The Seng Khasi is apolitical and is not involved in any matters political in nature. However, the Seng Khasi strives to gain recognition for the indigenous faith, Niam Khasi. Its adherents are denied several benefits due to this imbalance. The movement focuses on advocating for the rights and interests of the Khasi people within the framework of the Indian constitutional system.

Acivities
The Seng Khasi organise the Khasi religious dance known as Shad Suk Mynsiem (Dance of Peaceful Hearts). The dance was first held in the famous Weiking ground in 1911. Today, the dance is organised by various branches and held every weekend in different parts of the month from February till late June.

The dance had existed since time immemorial but had been deemed pagan and devil worship by the British and their missionaries. However, today, it is the pride of the Khasi people. Several other dances and accompanying music have been revived across the state inspired by the yeoman work of the Seng Khasi. One of the Seng Khasi's most important contributions over the last few decades has been the revival of the annual pilgrimage to the summit of the sacred peak, U Lum Sohpetbneng (Navel of the Heavens). Every first Sunday of February, a sea of devotees ascend to the sacred peak believed to be the origin point of mankind on Earth. The Khasis believe seven families known as ‘ U Hynñiewtrep’ descended to Earth to propagate Truth and nurture Mother Earth through a bridge of golden vines known as ‘Ka Jingkieng Ksiar’.

The movement has also worked to promote education and development in the Khasi Hills region, laying special emphasis on teaching traditional values alongside normal curriculums. Despite its many accomplishments, the Seng Khasi movement has faced its share of challenges.