Is Shillong India’s Real-Life Mythical Wonderland? Legends That’ll Leave You Speechless!

In the core of Meghalaya lies Shillong, a city that seamlessly intertwines nature and culture. It is well-known for its permeating traditions like rolling hills and waterfalls which give it the name the “Scotland of the East.” In addition to its stunning views, it also possesses a multitude of local secrets and legends that have been preserved for centuries. These stories, intricately connected to Khasi and Jaintia traditions, reveal the deep and wondrous spirit of the native people of Shillong. Throughout the rest of this article, we will describe some of the most enchanting tales and legends of the city.

1.The Legend of Lum Sohpetbneng: The Navel of Heaven

A deeply cherished legend of the Khasis is that of Lum Sohpetbneng, a towering peak lying about 20 kilometers off Shillong. The word “Sohpetbneng” literally means “The Navel of Heaven,” which is regarded as a gateway between heaven and earth. As per local mythos, the ancestors of the Khasi people were once divine entities living with gods until they realized that they wanted to visit earth and its exquisite wonders. The gods fulfilled their desire but chained them with a golden bridge called “U Lum Sohpetbneng” to ensure that they maintained their divine connection. 

The myth continues, saying the Khasi were blessed with seven commandments to maintain their spiritual and moral health. Unfortunately, some of them drifted from following the commandments, which resulted in the severance of the golden bridge and the people becoming stranded on earth. Nowadays, Lum Sohpetbneng has become a pilgrimage site where the Khasis congregate to reconnect with the divine. The “Seng Kut Snem” festival, celebrated annually, preserves and sustains the legend.

2.The Enchanted Depths of Umiam Lake

Umiam Lake, or the ‘Barapani Lake’ as some like to call it, is one of the most breathtaking spots in Shillong. Aside from being a picturesque spot for boating and picnics, it also has a local tale attached to it. A powerful water spirit named “Ka PahSyntiew’’ is said to inhabit the lake. Her job is to protect the lake and its vicinity, as well as ensure that those who are within its borders are safe as long as her domain is respected.

It is said that Ka PahSyntiew was once a stunning maiden who fell in love with a mortal man. Their love was considered taboo, and as punishment, she was transformed into a water spirit. Locals say that on some moonlit nights, they can see her gliding over the lake. Fishermen and tourists from all around the world try to pay their respect by giving small offerings, as well as seeking the spirit’s blessings. The tale of Ka PahSyntiew makes an already stunning sight full of a plethora of nature and spiritual beauty, even more fascinating.

3.The Story Behind The Living Root Bridges

In the outskirts of Shillong, living root bridges can be found, which are a wonder of bioengineering created by the Khasi people. These bridges, formed by directing the roots of rubber trees over streams and rivers, are practical yet mythical. One well-known story narrates the event when the Khasi people had to deal with an insurmountable river spirit that flooded and destroyed their way of life. In need of assistance, the villagers went to a wise elder of the village known to have a deep bond with nature. 

The elder directed the villagers to sow rubber trees on both sides of the river, and patiently wait for the roots to create a bridge. The spirit was so impressed with the villagers’ creativity and respect for nature that it ceased its destruction and blessed the bridge. Now, the living root bridges serve as a reminder of the wonderful relationship between nature and the Khasi people. They are also a source of creativity and resilience that represent the indigenous people of Shillong.

4.The Haunted House of Shillong

Every journey has a story to tell. ‘The Haunted House of Shillong’ is one of them. Known for its shrouded history, It is located right in the center of the town. This abandoned colonial-era home is said to hold the spirits of its past residents. According to legend, the house belonged to a British family who died under unknown circumstances. As one would call it a classic case of a ghost story, in short, the family had a tragic end. 

People have reported hearing unusual sounds, spotting shadows, and having the feeling that someone was staring at them, but not having anyone in sight. Some even claim to have seen the ghostly visions of the family haunting the house. Even with all of this extraordinary paranormal phenomena, the house continues to evoke mixed emotions of curiosity and dread to the people of Shillong. It is a stark reminder of the old colonial times which, if not forgotten, have certainly left their mark on the country.

Final Thoughts

It shan’t be erroneous to put forth the fact that a city like Shillong is much more than just a destination. Each tale, be it a story of other-worldly arches, supernatural spirits, or eerie architecture, brings something unique to the cultural identity of the city. These sagas are not limited to grasping the attention of the audience, but also letting the Khasi and Jaintia people safeguard their customs and ethos which can be passed forth in time. 

Next time you happen to visit the photogenic city of Shillong, make sure you pay special attention to the incredible stories that emitted from the hills and raise your natural sense of hearing. Every nook and corner bears a palpable sense of vibrancy waiting for a seeker to decode the extraordinary tales hidden in Shillong.

 

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