Culture in Meghalaya

Meghalaya culture comprises of the socio-economic pattern of the society of Meghalaya. The Khasi, Garo and Jaintia people residing in the different parts of Meghalaya portray the rich culture of Meghalaya.

To begin with the people of Meghalaya, it can be said that Meghalaya is, basically, a Christian dominated area. Many Christian missionaries had immigrated to Meghalaya during the 19th century. Yet, besides the Christians, other predominant groups of people in Meghalaya are:

The Garo - The Garos, also known as Achiks, are found in the southern belt of Meghalaya. It is believed that the Garos immigrated from Tibet many centuries back. Gradually, with passage of time, the Garo society was divided into three major 'Kin-groups', viz. Marak, Momin and Sangma.

The Khasi - The Khasis belongs to the Mon-Khemar family of the Austroasiatic group. A sub-group of the Khasi and the Pnar, the Khasi-Pnar occupies the Khasi Hills and some parts of the Jaintia Hills.

The Khasi and the Jaintia Hills comprises of four districts, and the Khasi community of this region is divided into five groups, viz.

Khasis
Wars
Pnars or Jaintia
Bhois
Lyngans

Moreover, the acceleration in the development of the socio-economic set-up of Meghalaya, the society of Meghalaya has evolved enormously. Therefore, we find a marked difference in the socio-cultural standards of the people of Meghalayan.