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Meghalaya — Culture,
Heritage & Language

Cherrapunji rains, living root bridges, Khasi culture

Introduction

Meghalaya, the 'Abode of Clouds', receives the world's heaviest rainfall at Mawsynram and Cherrapunji. Khasi, Jaintia and Garo communities form a rare matrilineal society where lineage and property pass through women.

Quick Facts

Capital
Shillong
Largest City
Shillong
Official Language
English
Formation Date
21 January 1972
Area
22,429 sq km
Population
3,300,000+
Region
Northeast
Type
State
Language
English is the official language. Khasi, Pnar and Garo are the dominant indigenous languages.
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Traditional Dress
Khasi women wear the Jainsem (long unstitched cloth) and Tap-Moh Khlieh shawl; Garo women wear Dakmanda. Men wear sleeveless coats and Tapmoh.
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Festivals
Nongkrem Dance, Shad Suk Mynsiem, Wangala (Garo harvest festival), Behdienkhlam and Christmas.
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Cuisine
Jadoh (rice with meat), Doh Khleh, Tungrymbai (fermented soybean), Pumaloi, Nakham Bitchi and Pukhlein.
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Literature
Khasi literature led by Soso Tham and U Rabon Sing Kharsuka; modern Garo and Khasi authors continue rich oral-to-written traditions.
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Art Forms
Khasi-Jaintia bamboo and cane work, monoliths of Nartiang, Wangala drum dance, Garo dadi and Khasi pottery of Larnai.
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Historical Importance
Khasi, Jaintia and Garo Hills districts of Assam were granted autonomy and became Meghalaya state in 1972.
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Districts & Cities

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