Khasi Tribe of Maghalaya

Meghalaya, one of the state of North East India, known as 'Abode of Clouds' is a habitat to three major tribes Khasi, Garo and Jaintiya and are found in different location of the state. These tribes are very lively with their rich culture and tradition. One of the most interesting thing that is enough to draw the attention of the busy world about these tribes is that they follow matrilineal system, which is practiced by only few tribes in India, where women are regarded as head of the family. Though I am mentioning them as ‘tribe’ or are regarded as so, still the people are very modern not only in the way they live their life but also in their thoughts, their mental outlook and so follows.

My experience with these tribes though not for a longer span of time but still it was very mesmerizing and long-lasting. Within the limited period as per the calendar and my watch, I have traveled many places in Meghalaya, and few of them were the hotspots for attracting the tourist all around. Among them the village Nongsophan and Mawlynong were quite famous because of their landscape beauty. Luckily as I always wish to explore new adventures, during my college days, I got the opportunity to travel to these places for my field visit where I could spend some valuable time to get closer to the natural beauty of Meghalaya.

Naturally when any tribe is tend to characterize, it is done by explain their practices such as food habits, marriage system, clothing and religion. Not moving away from this track, even I tried to study and understand a brief their customs and practices. 

Khasi tribe is very lively tribe in North East India, which can be underlined by their culture. Basically tribal people in North East are mostly non-vegetarian and are lovers of meat especially pork and beef and dry fish. So even among the Khasi we can see that most of them live on these food habits. Their traditional dish is called ‘Jadoh’ which is cooked in vary occasion; the dish is prepared from rice and oil extracted from pork fat, their meal is incomplete without ‘Kwai’ (dose of areca nut, betel leaf and lime) which is served at the end of every meal. They are also very much fond of wild vegetables, fruits and leaves, among that bamboo shot is very popular.

As I have mentioned before the Khasi, the largest tribe of Meghalaya is chiefly the followers of the matriarchal system. Normally the marriage between the same clan is not allowed in the state of Meghalaya. Even you would find it much interesting when I would tell you all that they follow the customs and traditions wherein weddings include the practice of girls proposing to boys. There need not be any agreement between the families of both boy and the girl before they get into a formal relationship; the marriageable folk is given full liberty to choose their own partners. There is no system of dowry in their marriage system. The marriage is successful once the groom shifts into the bride’s residence Isn’t it all interesting? 

When you would talk about attire, a Khasi lady wears a ‘Dhara’ or ‘Jainesm’ known in local language Physically these dresses are quite detailed and comprise of not one but several pieces of clothing, and hence give an attractive cylindrical shape to the woman’s body. The Jainesm includes two pieces of contrasting fabrics, which rest on each shoulder. Khasi men wears a sleeveless shirt called Jymphong.

One of the major festivals celebrated by Khasis is Nongkrem celebrated in the month of November every year which last for five days. It is popularly known as the Ka Pomblang Nongkrem. Another major festival celebrated in the month of April is known as the Shad Suk Mynsiem; a three days long celebration. 

Mawlynong, one of the memorable experience in my life and would even to many is a village in the East Khasi Hills district of the Meghalaya state. This village is also known as the cleanest village in Asia. The population over there is mostly Khasi. This village is the center of attraction for its maintenance which is in itself an example to the outsider. As I have interacted to the villagers in Mawlynong, I could feel the sense of responsibility of the villagers towards their surrounding, which they handle in a very organized manner. If you take a walk around the village you can notice how the villagers have put handmade dustbin for dumping the waste in every nook and corner of the village. Also we can see the bamboo huts and different kind of orchids in every household which are very eye-catching. Also the village is surrounded by water falls and if we travel 1km from the village we can enjoy the beauty of famous root bridge in Riwai village which is famous all over the world. With the natural beauty the place is also blessed with many other natural resources. The Mawylonong village is not only an example to the outside world but also to the neighboring village such as Thai village and Nongsophan. 

The description regarding this village highlights a few important characteristics of Khasi people in Mehgalaya. So I don’t hesitate to reveal about the village to anyone I come across. In fact I believe everyone should come here to this world of beauty with some beautiful creatures of the globe.


By Madhu Manjuri Gohain
Photography by: Madhu Manjuri Gohain

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Shillong : A piece of Heaven on Earth

Ever heard the term "Scotland of East"? Within the extending Pine forests there lies a piece of paradise where the sunshine make hearts warmer, slowly blowing wind transform minds into heavenly calmness; it is Shillong, where stars falls at every single night. It is Shillong, where two skies rise every late night.

Shillong reminded the European settlers about Scotland. So she is locally popular as Scotland of the East. It is approximately 104 km away from Guwahati; the major metropolis of North East India. Once the Guwahati-Shillong journey happened to be a picturesque memory. However now extension of outskirt urban structure of both of the cities is a great hamper for such a refreshment searching journey. However instead of the threat of spreading urbanization Shillong is still a ideal holiday destination throughout the year. Visiting only the main city is not fruitful without experiencing the ornaments of nature around Shillong proper.

Though the nearest airport to Shillong is Umroi(Shillong) Airport (40 km) it is the best option to arrive first at Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport (129 km) at Guwahati due to the frequent inclement weather of Umroi Airport. From there cabs are available to Shillong for an journey of approximately 5 hours; which cost around 1500 Indian Rupees. The cab will drop you at Police Bazar; from where you can go to almost anywhere within and around Shillong. If  an accommodation point have been already chosen, with or without some extra bucks the driver will drop you there.

Within and around the city there lies a number of waterfalls as the holy guardians of Shillong. The major attraction is Elephant Falls. Local people referred this fall as ‘Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew’ which means ‘Three Steps Waterfalls’. The British named it as Elephant falls because there was a elephant shaped rock near the left side of the fall till the earthquake of 1897. The fall is actually the compilation of a number of small falls and does not deluge down in a continuous column. Weitden or Sweet Falls; which is about at a 9 km distance from Shillong is regarded as one among the most beautiful falls; situated near Happy Valley. On the very outskirt of the city there is a waterfall which looks like a flying Eagle; locally known as ‘Umkaliar’ but popular as Spread Eagle Falls. Beadon and Bishop Falls, Gunner's Falls and Crinoline Falls are some other falls easily accessible from the urban hustle and bustle of Shillong; covered with majestic natural scenery. Crinoline Falls is more than a falls. The natural swimming pool is a added attraction to this falls. Tourists like me no doubt should have the utilization of the chance to swim within nature. Besides there is a restaurant to serve delicious foods and a small zoo to have the refreshment of a full day. The waterfalls of Shillong are also the home to innumerable wild animals such as wild cats, leopards, deer, colorful birds, langurs etc. During proper weather the eye catching view of these falls and magical orchids hypnotize visitors not to return from Shillong. Spring is the best season to visit the waterfalls.

Shillong Peak (6,433 Feet) is not only the highest geographical point of Shillong but also of Meghalaya. The peak is located approximately 9 km south to the city. This classical tourist hotspot is the best spot to have a heart throbbing visual experience of the entire city and scattered countryside. During day one can observe the mesmerizing botanical cum urban beauty whereas in night Shillong looks like a miracle dazzling with thousands stars from this peak.

Travelers with some more adventurous attitude can choose well known Marai Cave on Shillong-Jowai road to reach Shillong Peak.

Sohpetbneng (Navel of Heaven) Peak is located at the centre of the Shillong Pleatue. It is believed that a visit to the Sohpetbneng Peak grants answers to all the questions associated with the existence of the Universe to the visitor. This spot is a point of spiritual relaxation and frequently visited by the tourists. The peak is 20 km away from Shillong.

As there are rarely any dangerous animals in Shillong's thin forests, grassland and popular natural tourist spots; for adventurous visitors trekking exploration or forest camping can be a valuable experience. Laytlum Canyon is the best option to have a trekking beyond experience where its feels like walking on the last end of the world. David Scott Trail and Mawphlang along with its sacred forest are other thrilling areas for trekking near to the city.

Khasi Heritage Village which is located in Mawphlang deliver a glimpse of Khasi tradition, culture and practice at a very single spot. The village has shops, food stalls and picnic space with necessary modern amenities.

The romantic Lady Hydari Park (Designed like a Japanese Garden), Ward's Lake and adjacent Botanical Survey of India Orchidarium, Sohliya Strawberry Farm are some of the recommendation for natural refreshment.

The huge water body of Umium is a perfect destination for those who like skiing, boating and angling. Umium or Barapani is a artificial lake which is presently one among the most popular picnic spots of North East India.

A portion of the virgin nature of Shillong was transformed into a Golf Course by a Group of British civil servants in 1898. The Shillong Golf Course- "The Gleneagle of the East" is not only a scenic one but also one of the wettest, largest and toughest golf course of the world.

Apart from tourist hotspots of State Central Library and Capt. Williamson Sangma State Museum, Wankhar Memorial Museum of Entomology (Butterfly Museum), Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Cultures and Chrysalis the Gallery a traditional traveler has a lot to see like Rhino Heritage Museum, Zoological Museum, Anthropological Museum, Arunachal Museum, Air Force Museum, Motphran, XSV Adventures Paintball Zone etc.

Police Bazar is the business hub of the entire state and people find almost everything in their shopping list. But it is ‘Lewduh’ or Bara Bazar, the largest street market of North East India which attracts majority of tourist due to the availability of verities of ethnic products; from local vegetable and forest herbs to traditional handloom and handicrafts.

The locality of Shillong has high sense of eating culture. Foods in Shillong are tasty but not cheaper though reasonable. Almost all the noteworthy restaurants of Shillong serve better quality coffee and milkshake at value for money. Eating in Shillong is fun, enjoyment as well as refreshment. Shillong is also a heaven for those who like more alcohol at less price. Street food stalls in Bara Bazar offers real Khasi foods along with other varieties.

Shillong will make you experience and explore a piece of heaven on Earth definitely.

By Arijit Baruah
Edited By Pradyut Pawan Gogoi
Photography By Pradyut Pawan Gogoi and Madhu Manjuri Gohain

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Toronto

Toronto, The commercial capital of Canada, the fifth largest city in North America is one of the ten largest cities of world. Standing on the bank of lake Ontario and on the south-east of the geographical area of Canada; Toronto consists of Toronto Down Town City, Missisauga, Richmond Hill, Markham, Waughan and Brampton; all of which make the Greater Toronto Area (G.T.A.) a heaven to live in.

The SUBWAY and the GO TRAINS to and from the UNION are the heart of public communication over and above the City buses in different names in different parts of the city, among which VIVA BLUE are the most famous. Within the Down Town Area, Trums also add a prime role in this field. Highways, Expressways and other multiple entry roads keep the vehicle owners peep wide through.

Canadian National Tower (CN Tower) that stands on the heart of Toronto is the sixth free standing structure (tallest tower from 1976 to2007) in the world and it attracts tourists from all over the globe. Rogers Toml Stadium, one of the best Baseball play grounds is another attraction of world players. I also came to know a interesting fact that Toronto is regarded among the best destinations by the gay and lesbian tourists.

The season between December to March is mat of snowfall. The whole city along with other parts of Canada is while covered with snowfall, sometimes causing ice storm. During my stay, the ice storm blown on 21st December, 2013 was so heavy that it caused wide spread devastations of trees and power grids. On 7th December the temperature came down to -330c. The Pearson International Airport had either to cancel or postpone many a flights. Christmas is the biggest ceremony there and Christian processions start in November to continue for many a days in different parts of G.T.A. Winter creates the surfaces of lake Ontario and other water bodies nice playgrounds for varieties of ice games to the citizens of all ages.

21st December is celebrated in Canada as the First Day of Spring but spring actually starts in April. All the Red and Green Maple trees and other trees start dressing themselves with new leaves, buds and flowers as if the heaven has come down to the earth of Toronto. The summer of Toronto creates a heaven for the dwellers and makes their way to the Mid Island. The marinas become ready for that. Summer multiply festivities and beaches are made to welcome peoples for throwing away the heat although for the time being.

In September Fall starts coming to paints the colours of the trees in varieties. This is a reason for the world tourists to reach there and go out for enjoying Nature's changing of colours. Cottages sometimes fail to provide accommodation for foreign and local tourists who do not own a such.

The food of Toronto is basically Italian with wine from France. Food of other European countries, Chinese and South-East Asian food are too in the list of preferences. Tandoori Chicken is also popular along with.

The beautiful city of Toronto is a refreshing experience for international tourists and they generally do not miss this chance of natural calmness within a supremely planned urban structure. 

By Chow Nagen Hazarika 

Photography by Chow Nagen Hazarika

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Food Villa

Known among the best restaurants in Jorhat as well as in Upper Assam for traditional Assamese dishes, Food Villa was started by a local entrepreneur and food lover Bikramjeet Bhuyan. The restaurant is situated in the small town of Teok.

During my first visit to Food Villa I ordered steamed Small Fish, Goroi Fish on Stick, Duck (Hahor Mankha) with Kumura and some dishes of Local Chicken (Murgi) with traditional rice and veggies. The taste was so good that I visited once again with five of my friends to have the total experience of the restaurant. Till the dishes had been prepared two of my friends already had a nice experience with the bar. Being a vegetarian one of my friend had no complain with his traditional 'veg Thali'. We came to know that the manager himself is very supportive to recommend some more dishes to the vegetarians. My all other pork lover friends selected all available pork items for our lunch. The expression of happiness that was reflected on their faces told me everything about the taste, without a word being uttered. They also tried my items like Sungat Diya Borali Mass, slightly gravy Borali Mass, Khorikat Diya Hanh (Duck Skew), Patot Diya Boriyala Mass and Patha Mankho (Mutton Curry). It was a great YUMMY!!!! 

In today’s crowded environment, this place can make you feel relaxed. Even the ambiance is awesome. Everything is clean and spacey, properly decorated and can make you feel friendly. Taken care of every small need of customers for more comfortability by the authorities, you are sure not to get bored while waiting for your food.

However though generally service is ok not sufficient regarding the number of staff members to maintain as the restaurant provide marriage and other party services too. They will serve you well but have to wait for a little. l am not saying its bad to have some more extra services but a little upgradation of service and increasing the number number of staff will make it better for all. Just outstanding, no complaints you will be satisfied to pay for that taste. My advice is to have a group lunch/dinner so that you will be able to taste and eat most of the interesting dishes.

I will ask you guys just to visit this place once, then you will not feel like going elsewhere if you love Assamese food. I visited this place again when going to Nazira. Though could not give a sufficient time to my lunch I felt the same taste of my favorite dishes as was it before.

Food Villa offers a wide variety of delicious Assamese & other northeast cuisines, various preparations of Chicken, Duck meat, Local Fish etc. They also offer various uncommon varieties of Fast Foods, Cakes and Sweets. The environment is warm & the staff are friendly. To end up in short- Food Villa explored me with the experience of some delicious Assamese traditional dishes.

Nearby cities: Sibsagar & Jorhat

Contact:

Food Villa
Jogduar, Near Teok Fuel Centre
Teok, Assam
Pin-785112

Phone: 9435090522, 8011233330
E-mail: bikramjeetbhuyan@gmail.com

(people also search as restaurants in jorhat, restaurants neare jorhat, jorhat bar, best food in jorhat)

By Amarjyoti Sarmah

Photography by Bikramjeet Bhuyan

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Singpho Eco-Lodge

• Location: Inthong, Ketetong, Margherita, Assam.
• Email: singhphoecolodge@gmail.com
• Mobile: +91 9854438896

For the last 20 years, in researching Tribal Languages of Upper Assam and parts of Arunachal Pradesh, I have had the opportunity to stay in tribal villages, to learn the language and learn about the culture and everyday life of village people from many different communities.

These different tribal communities include Tai Aiton, Tai Phake and Tai Khamyang, where Tai language is still spoken and also the Tai Ahom, where unfortunately the Tai language mother tongue has been lost but Tai language lives on in ritual. Then there are the Singpho villages in Upper Assam and the Turung villages, where Singpho language is spoken, in Jorhat and Golaghat. More recently I have had the chance to stay in various Tangsa (Naga) villages from many subtribes, particularly Tonglum, Hakhun, Kimsing, Mossang, Ronrang, Moklum, Longri, Langching, Ponthai, Maitai and Ngaimong.

The Singpho village of Ing Thong, near to Margherita, is a small settlement of just two houses in the middle of a large tea garden. Once upon a time the village must have been larger, because Ing Thong is a Burmese word meaning ‘1000 houses’, but now there are just two. Ing Thong is a special village, though, with two really special tourist attractions – the Singpho Eco Lodge and a wild Horlock’s Gibbon called Kalaya.

When I first went there in 2003, thanks to the generous help of the late Ramjan Ali, I stayed in the house of the local community leader, Mr. Bhupeswar Ningda. In the morning, while waking up, I heard this extraordinary noise. I did not know what it was, but soon a gibbon appeared, a female aged about 30, who is like a family member in this household, and comes to the edge of the house. She is called Kalaya and has been carefully looked after for many years.

In the years that followed, the entrepreneurial family of Ningda, and their son-in-law, Mr. Manje La Singpho, constructed a tourist lodge, the Singpho Eco Lodge. Built in traditional style, up from the ground, made of bamboo with a thatched roof, the Eco Lodge is a gorgeous place to stay for tourists, visitors and researchers like me alike. I was honoured to be the first foreign guest at the lodge, and really appreciate the wonderful food that they make their, traditional Singpho dishes using all manner of local forest vegetables – mostly boiled, and with plenty of chilli but not too many spices. My favourite is bamboo shoot and banana flower, truly delicious!

Traditionally Singpho people take their meal around sunset or a little later and sleep reasonably early, and they also wake early. In the winter season, which is when I usually go there, at around 6 AM people will sit around the fire – maybe outside in the rising sun – to take a warm cup of tea, or, if you are lucky, some rice cooked in a bamboo tube, or some yams cooked in the fire. 

At night, in the Singpho villages, I have enjoyed the telling of stories, stories about the origin of Singpho people or about the life of the Lord Buddha, in whom the Singpho people place great faith and whose teaching they follow. My bonus point as a linguistic......

After all my advice; if you want to have a long term 'Escape Holiday' in Assam and ready to live with a warm heart traditional family out of the hustle and bustle of Assam's unhealthy modernization cum urbanization.....NO DOUBT ONE OF THE BEST OPTION IS TO RESERVE THIS LODGE FOR YOU!

By Stephane Moorey

Photography by Stephane Moorey

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