Guwahati: In the quest to understand the essence of ancient Bharat, one must turn to the Northeast—where traditions continue to thrive in their most organic and spiritual forms, said Dr. Sunil Mohanty, Assam Kshetra Prachar Pramukh of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. He was delivering a comprehensive and reflective address at a religious gathering in Meghalaya, placing the region’s indigenous traditions within the broader civilizational framework of Bharat.
The 36th Seng Khihlang (Tien Phira/Lumphung)—one of the most significant indigenous spiritual congregations of the Khasi–Pnar (Jaintia) community—was held at Sein Raij Muthlong in West Jaintia Hills from April 17 to 19, 2026. Established in 1981, the congregation has grown from a modest gathering of 30–40 participants into a massive spiritual event attended by lakhs of indigenous faith followers, symbolizing cultural continuity, identity, and spiritual resilience.
Recalling Meghalaya’s historical legacy, Dr. Mohanty referred to early rulers such as Urmi Rani (c. 600–630 CE), Krishak Pator, Hatak, and Guhak, stressing the importance of preserving their memory. He also highlighted the significance of Jaintiapur, the former capital of the Jaintia Kingdom until its annexation by the British in 1835. He mentioned notable rulers including Prabhat Ray Syiem (1500–1516), Laxmi Sinha (1670–1701)—credited with constructing the Jayant Rajbadi in 1680—and the last ruler, Rajendra Singh Syiem (1832–1835).
Paying tribute to resistance against colonial rule, he remembered leaders such as U Tirot Sing (c. 1802–1835), U Kiang Nangbah (1836–1862), and Pa Togan Sangma (d. 1872), acknowledging their sacrifices in defending sovereignty and identity. Mohanty underscored the richness of indigenous heritage, citing megalithic traditions of menhirs and dolmens as enduring symbols of an ancient civilization. He also spoke about the spiritual significance of the Nartiang Durga Temple and the Jaintia Shaktipeeth in present-day Bangladesh, and pointed to a nearly 3,000-year-old iron-smelting tradition in Meghalaya as evidence of advanced indigenous knowledge systems.
Emphasizing philosophical unity across diverse traditions, he noted that indigenous faiths across northeastern Bharat—including those of the Nyishi, Apatani, Galo, Mishings, and Kacharis—share common foundations such as reverence for the Pancha Bhutas (earth, water, fire, air, and sky). Drawing from the Rig Veda, he cited the expression “Eko’ham Bahusyamah” (I am One, may I become many), explaining that diversity is an expression of a singular reality manifesting in multiple forms. In the Bharatiya worldview, he said, diversity is not division—as often interpreted in Western thought—but an intrinsic expression of unity, where plurality strengthens rather than fragments the whole.
Describing indigenous faith traditions as the foundational source of the world’s modern civilizations and organized religions, Mohanty said that just as the Ganga depends on its origin at Gangotri, modern civilizations are rooted in indigenous traditions. Their decline, he warned, would disrupt global cultural and spiritual balance. He also referred to the International Council for Cultural Studies, which brings together representatives of over 40 indigenous traditions worldwide—including Māori, Aboriginal, Aztec, and Zulu communities—to explore shared spiritual values under the guiding ethos of “All are One.”
In the context of the centenary year of the RSS, Mohanty emphasized the need for “Panch Parivartan”—preservation of family values, environmental protection, social harmony, promotion of selfhood, and adherence to civic duties. He also highlighted core principles of Niam Khasi such as “Tip briew tip blei” (to know humanity is to know God), “Tip kur tip kha,” and “Kamai ia ka hok” (earn righteousness), underlining that true spirituality is reflected in conduct, compassion, and selfless service.
The three-day programme witnessed structured participation, beginning with the arrival of delegates and a ceremonial Mawbynna (monolith) procession on the first day, followed by installation rituals, awareness sessions, and prayers on the second day, and culminating in a grand closing ceremony on the third day. More than 30 Sein Raij and Seng Khasi units participated through traditional songs and dances, showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage of the community.
The event was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Sniawbhalang Dhar, Wailadmiki Shylla, Sanbor Shullai, Matthew Beyondstar Kurbah, Laski Rymbai, along with JHADC executive members Sooki Lapasam and Rikut Parien, traditional authorities such as the Dollois of Shangpung, Raliang, Jowai, and Nangbah Elakas, and several government officials.
The congregation concluded with a strong message of unity, cultural pride, and a reaffirmation that preserving indigenous traditions is essential for building a harmonious, spiritually rooted, and inclusive society.
