The Umsan Nongkharai is a festival held tgo honour the major deity of the khasi religion,the Lei Shyllong, after whom the town of the shillong and the highest peak in the state is named. The rituals start at midnight – prayers are offered and Umsan Nongkharai also involves an animal sacrifice to the deity. The drums and flutes – important parts of the Khasi musical set-up – provide the soundtrack to a group of males dancing till the break of dawn. Umsan Nongkharai continues for five days – each day with dedicated themes and prayers. Devotees pray for a good harvest and protection from the extreme weather elements like hail and storms, and they also perform fertility rituals. The last day is when most public rituals are performed and sees the largest crowds.

Duration : 5- Day