OVERVIEW
Meghalaya, is located in North – Eastern region of India. The name means, “abode of clouds” in Sanskrit. This is a tiny but picturesque state that has remained cut-off from mainstream India due to some ethnic problems. This state has been able to survive the cross culture commercialisation that has taken over other states of India.
It is bounded by Bangladeshi divisions of Mymensingh and Sylhet in the South, West by Bangladeshi division of Rangpur, and North and East by Indian state of Assam. This state receives heavy rainfall and two of the world’s wettest regions are located in Meghalaya. It is full of vibrant tradition, culture, biodiversity, scenic beauty and tranquillity.
Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya, which is also known as “Scotland of the East”. The principal languages spoken here are Khasi, Pnar, and Garo with English as State official language. Due to the initiative of the Christian missionaries, Khasi, Pnar and Garo languages is part of Modern Indian Languages.
Most of the Meghalayan history is lost, apart from the accounts of Khasi kingdoms in the chronicles of Kacharis and Ahoms.
Agriculture is the main occupation followed by majority of rural masses and thus is the, largest source of livelihood. Meghalaya is renowned for its oranges, jackfruits, pineapples, bananas and temperate fruits like peaches, pears and plums.
Meghalayan cuisine mainly comprises of rice and meat. Jadoh is the clone of the traditional Biryani, it is made with rice and pork. Another important dish is Pukhlein, which is prepared from bland rice and served with piping hot tea. Ktungrymbai. This dish is especially prepared during festive times by mixing fermented beans and spices.
The people of Meghalaya are famous for their hand weaving skills and creating cane baskets, mats and stools. The trademark mat made of cane called tlieng, guarantees good utility and has been around for 20-30 years.
