By: Dr. Wa-i-sa Sumer
Ka Sngi Musiang, meaning “the grand market day,” is a significant day for the people of Jowai town. The third day of the Behdieñkhlam festival falls on this day, adding to its vibrancy and importance.
The day begins with the setting up of the sacred Deiñkhlam structures—Ka Bon is raised at Iong Rangad Wah–Khon Raij, while Ka Doh is installed at Iung Langdoh, located at Loomïongkjam.
It also marks the placement of the Deiñkhlam Khian in front of every household that follows Ka Niamtre. However, it is important to note that these setups in individual households can only takeplace after the completion of Ka Deiñkhlam Ka Doh.
All these sacred installations must be carried out early in the morning, between 4:00 AM and 7:00 AM, as part of the day’s ritual observances.
In the morning, around 9:30 A.M., the male members of the Khon Raij carry the Symbood Khnong—a sacred log smaller than the Khnong Blai—which had been cut down after offering prayers to Mother Earth. The log is considered sanctified and purified, symbolizing the divine footsteps of God. It is carried in the name of one of the revered ancestors of the Soo Kpoh clan, Ka Bon. This sacred log is then taken to Khlieh Chnong, a hilltop at Chilliang Raij, which offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Jowai town, where it will be ceremonially erected.
Between 11:00 A.M. and 12:00 noon, a special assembly of all localities—referred to as Ki Kmai Raij—is held at Myngkoi Pyrdi, in Iongpiah, Jowai. A solemn sermon is delivered under the leadership of the President of the Seiñ Raij, with the presence of elders and the Dolloi, the religious head. This gathering spreads the message of love, peace, and unity. Important guidelines and key information are shared with all participants to help maintain peace, harmony, and a cordial relationship among all members of the community.
After the completion of the programme, the entire team proceeds joyfully, dancing on their way to Iawmusiang.
One of the most captivating sights of the celebration is the vibrant display of uniforms worn by participants from different localities. These uniforms, in a variety of bright colours—yellow, orange, green, blue, red, and more—add a dynamic and festive charm to the occasion. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also help maintain discipline and reflect the spirit of unity among the members.
The localities march In harmony, showcasing a strong bond of togetherness. Before reaching Iawmusiang, the dance procession makes a brief halt at Ka Biar Ka Blai, where the sacred items—the Bom, the Bhuri, and the Bikur—are stationed. Here, all participants gather to perform the traditional circular dance, moving rhythmically in unison around the sacred space.
Following this soulful pause, the dance procession continues its journey, carrying forward the sequence of celebration.
To an onlooker or layperson, the dance procession might appear as a random movement — back and forth, up and down, here and there — almost seeming directionless and confusing. However, in reality, the procession follows a purposeful and sacred path.
It moves in a specific direction, with the intent of visiting all the important sites of religious significance — Madan Biar Ka Blai, Datlawkor, Madan Moosaphir, Madan Knia Khad, Madan Chad Sukra, and Madan Siat Thong.
Thus, the procession gracefully weaves through the entire stretch of Iawmusiang, the main market area, transforming it into a vibrant corridor of faith, unity, and tradition. Around mid-afternoon, a sacred ritual will take place at the revered location known as Pohsawiar.
Before the ritual begins, all the Deiñkhlam of the Kmai Raij—namely Panaliar, Dulong, Tpeppale, Iongpiah, Loomiongkjam, and Lumkyrwiang—must be shifted to a spot closer to the designated area for the ceremony, known as Ka Suid Ka Choor Khnong Blai.
At this solemn hour, the sounds of Ka Bom and Ka Bhuri must cease. Despite the usual celebratory noise and festivity, a respectful silence should be observed.
Let everyone—be it the main performers, the spectators, or the public at large—stand in solemn unity, like disciplined soldiers. With hearts full of reverence and devotion, the entire gathering must honor the moment as the Khon Raij carries the sacred Khnong Blai from Loom Soo Iung to Pohskur.
This is a sacred moment when the Dalloi, the religious head, along with the male elders of the Kur Nikhla—a clan specially sanctified for this ritual—performs the revered offering known as Ka Suid Ka Choor Khnong Blai. During this act of libation, he offers heartfelt prayers to U TreKirot, seeking divine blessings for the well-being of all humanity.
Upon completing his prayers, he hands over the Khnong Blai—a gourd filled with sacred rice beer—to U Kni Nikhla and the other male elders. As he receives it, U Kni Nikhla too offers his solemn prayers, seeking God’s approval for a healthy and prosperous life, a bountiful and beautiful harvest, and protection from illness, plague, and harmful pests that disturb the balance of society.
The divine response to these prayers Is often believed to be revealed through sacred symbols or signs that appear as the rice beer is poured during the libation—an awe-inspiring sight of God’s presence and favour.
While the sacred act is being performed, the audience maintains perfect discipline—a silent and powerful reflection of their deep respect and admiration for the ritual.
Once the ceremony concludes, the people of Kmai Raij begin their return, carrying their Deiñkhlam in a vibrant dance procession that moves southward toward their respective localities.
Each locality makes special arrangements to ceremonially erect their Deiñkhlam—with prayers, sermons, and traditional dances marking the moment. Yet, before fully returning, all must once again set foot at the sacred site of Biar Ka Blai.
As the Kmai Raij departs, the people of the Khon Raij also begin their own grand procession towards Chilliang Raij, carrying their Khnong Blai with them.
Upon reaching Moosyiem at Chilliang Raij, the sacred Khnong Blai is laid to rest—but only after the completion of a solemn prayer ceremony led by the Pator. During this ceremony, he offers his libation, known as Ka Suit Ka Choor, with the same reverence and devotion as that offered earlier by the Dolloi.
Moreover, one must not overlook the significant role played by the womenfolk of the
community. As the main spectators, they also serve as dedicated volunteers and assistants, contributing immensely to the smooth flow of the event.
In particular, the women of Panaliar take on a special responsibility—welcoming and greeting the people of Khon Raij as they approach the ritual site. This gesture, marked by heartfelt gratitude, love, and respect, symbolizes the deep bond shared between the communities.
Dressed in vibrant traditional attire, their graceful presence adds colour, charm, and a festive spirit to the entire occasion—bringing the sacred celebration to life with warmth and joy.
By evening, women—both young and old—joyfully take part in Ka Li Peit Rot, a cherished tradition involving visits and exchanges between community halls.
During this event, they go from one locality to another to admire the beautifully crafted structures known as Rot, meticulously constructed and designed by the male members of each locality.
These Rots are far more than decorative displays—they are time-honoured expressions of tradition, creativity, and community spirit. Rooted in ancient custom, each Rot reflects current themes—addressing social issues, raising awareness, and advocating support for various causes that matter to the community.
The Rots symbolize unity and togetherness, offering each locality a platform to showcase their skills, craftsmanship, and artistic vision. On the final day of the festival, these meaningful creations will be ceremoniously taken to Aitnar Pool, the sacred water body that marks the culmination of the celebration.
After a day filled with vibrant activities and diverse preparations marking the third day of the festival, a sense of calm begins to settle over the community.
With hearts full and spirits high, everyone takes time to relax, rest, and rejuvenate—gathering their energy and anticipation for the grand finale, the culmination day of the festival.
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