Overview

• Behdienkhlam means “to drive away the plague” in the Pnar (Jaiñtia) language.
• This festival typically lasts for three to four days.
• The biggest Behdienkhlam festivities can be experienced in Jowai (West Jaiñtia Hills) and in Tuberkmai (East Jaiñtia Hills).
• One of the most unique features of the festival is the Dat-lawakor, a ritualistic form of football played with a wooden ball.
• It features music, dance, and artistic displays such as the construction of massive, colourful raths by the community.

When & Where

• This festival is celebrated annually in July, shortly after the sowing season.
• The main celebration takes place in Jowai, Meghalaya.