Nongkrem dance
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A harvest thanksgiving dance held during the Ka Pomblang Nongkrem festival at Smit, the seat of the Khyrim chiefdom near Shillong.
RitualWhere: Meghalaya (Smit, East Khasi Hills)Occasion: Ka Pomblang Nongkrem festival, usually in October or November
| Performed by | Young unmarried women and men, with the Syiem (chief) and priests performing the rituals |
|---|---|
| Costume | Women in silk jainsem with gold and silver ornaments and crowns; men with plumed headgear, swords and shields |
| Music and instruments | Drums and the tangmuri pipe |
How it is performed
- The festival begins with rituals led by the Syiem and priests, including the offering of a goat (pomblang) to the deities.
- Prayers are offered to Ka Blei Synshar for a good harvest and the welfare of the people.
- Women dance in an inner circle with small, gentle steps; men dance around them with swords and fans.
- The dance goes on over several days in the courtyard near the Syiem’s house.
Significance
Nongkrem is a religious festival of the Khasi people that gives thanks for the harvest and keeps the traditions of the Hima Khyrim alive.