SHILLONG, AUG 27: Rajya Sabha MP James K Sangma on Wednesday promised Rs 20 lakh for development and beautification of the sacred Aitnar pool at Mukhla while attending the Behdeiñkhlam festival as chief guest.
Responding to a memorandum submitted by Seiñraij Mukhla, Sangma said the funds would be provided for upgrading the surroundings of the Aitnar pool, where the annual rituals draw large crowds.
“I am grateful to the people of Seiñraij Mukhla and neighbouring villages for successfully hosting the festival and preserving the rich culture. This is possible because of your collective hard work,” Sangma said.
He said Behdeiñkhlam has grown beyond its original ritualistic purpose.
“While Behdeiñkhlam originally began with the objective of driving away plagues, sickness and social evils, it has now evolved into a powerful symbol of community unity and strength to overcome societal challenges,” he said.
Urging youth to safeguard heritage, he added, “Protect and preserve your culture and traditions as they form the identity and roots of human existence, ensuring they are passed down to future generations.”
The event was attended by Health and Sports Minister and local MLA Wailadmiki Shylla, government officials, religious leaders and representatives of various Seiñraij bodies.
Earlier, welcoming the chief guest, Shylla offered blessings for health, prosperity and well-being on the occasion of the festival.
On the concluding day, members of Seiñraij Mukhla performed traditional dances and brought colourful ‘rots’ (tableaux) carrying social messages to the sacred Aitnar pool.
