The state of Meghalaya, formed on 21 January 1972, is a state of fascinating socio-cultural significance. Its heritage can be traced from the prehistoric times of Stone Age up to the present. Though comprising mainly of the matrilineal Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes – the state also houses many other lesser known communities such as the Hajong,Sakachep, Biate, Koch, Dalu, Margnar and the Nepali. All these communities find voice in this volume. This book looks at the state of Meghalaya exhaustively from the perspective of heritage documentation and maintenance. The 38 chapters written by anthropologists and independent researchers, present the rich traditions found in the region. This volume will be of great help to academicians, researchers, students, and laymen interested in a comprehensive study of the region. Please note: This title is co-published with Manohar Publishers, New Delhi. Taylor & Francis does not sell or distribute the Hardback in South Asia.

The Khasi religion, at the levels of both belief and practice (rites and rituals), traditionally, was neither codified nor elaborated uniformly across the Khasi Hills. The Khasi religion is neither church-based nor does it have an established priesthood. This means that, traditionally, it was not an organised religion that could give uniform and standardised rituals to society. Life-cycle events were marked by the performance of rites by an individual’s mother’s brothers. Their absence presents a situation of crisis. The book explains the ways in which such situations of crisis have been resolved. There are events other than life-cycle events that threaten an individual’s life. The book explains the rites performed to thwart evil influences on individuals. The book also highlights the role of the Ka Seng Khasi in preserving and perpetuating the Khasi belief and rites, and the historical conditions leading to its formation.

Study based on the tribal communities of Meghalaya, India.

"Re-Imagining Northeast Writings and Narratives: Language, Culture, and Border Identity" presents a collaborative effort to critically examine the concept of Northeast India, focusing on its linguistic, geographical, cultural, and social dimensions. Through a compilation of articles and essays, the volume delves into various aspects such as language, literature, culture, challenges, and the complexities of identity within the region. Each contribution offers detailed insights and findings, enhancing our understanding of Northeast India's diverse cultural landscape and the experiences of its people. By addressing themes of spatiality, movement, and responses to representations of the Northeast, the volume aims to deepen scholarly engagement with the region and stimulate discourse on its unique linguistic, cultural, and border dynamics. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, scholars, and anyone interested in gaining a nuanced understanding of Northeast India and its intricate interplay of language, culture, and identity.

This book delves into varied aspects of the history of Bengal and North east situated within a time frame of more than a hundred years, from the colonial times to the present. The individual essays deal with ideas, literary texts, politics, gender, industries, culture, health, sports and tribal issues relevant to these regions. Probing health issues in the colonial period the volume also explains the development of the modern coal industry on the one hand and the survival of the traditional potter’s craft on the other. The significance of traditional healing practices is dwelt upon as also the question of female health and dissemination of knowledge. The pen-picture of the happenings at the bathing ghat reveals the vibrant rural social life of the times. The modernization of the theatre gives a glimpse into the cultural ethos. The institutionalization of sports is examined. Analysis of contemporary cinema throws light on the perception of a woman’s position in society. As the reader travels from Bengal to the North-East, the impact of missionary activities on tribal life is revealed. The tribals’ search for identity is explored. The issues of peace, security and the interests of independent India are also dissected. This volume would be indispensable for scholars of literature, history, film studies, political science and contemporary studies in South Asia. Please note: Taylor & Francis does not sell or distribute the Hardback in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka