A trip to the wettest places in Meghalaya

 

This article is featuring regions like Mawsynram and Cherrapunji in Meghalaya showcases the unique geographical features and lifestyles of the world's wettest places. The travelogue explains the scientific process of orographic lifting, which causes the region's incessant heavy rainfall. Additionally, by introducing the area's famous limestone caves, living root bridges, and sacred forests, it emphasizes ecological balance and the conservation of natural heritage. The video also highlights the issue of drinking water scarcity despite the extreme rainfall. Finally, the report sheds light on the resilience of the local Khasi tribe and the traditional bamboo-based protective gear that helps them navigate this challenging climate.

 

A trip to the wettest places in Meghalaya

The Khasi tribe lives in harmony with nature—without causing it harm—amidst the high-rainfall and rugged environment of Meghalaya. They employ natural and eco-friendly techniques in their daily lives:

1. Living Root Bridges: Instead of constructing cement and concrete bridges to cross rivers and streams, the Khasi people create "living root bridges" (known locally as Jingkieng Jri) by guiding the aerial roots of the Indian rubber plant. These living bridges last for over a century and grow stronger over time, serving as a prime example of symbiosis between humans and nature.

2. Conservation of Sacred Forests: The Khasi community adheres to centuries-old beliefs to protect forests and biodiversity. For instance, the Mawphlang Sacred Forest has been preserved for over 800 years. Tradition strictly prohibits removing even a single leaf or twig from these sacred forests, ensuring the complete protection of natural vegetation and rare plant species. 

3. Use of Bamboo and Palm Leaves ('Knup'):

Knup: To work during heavy rains, the Khasi people wear a waterproof 'Knup'—made from bamboo and palm leaves—instead of plastic or synthetic umbrellas. It is entirely eco-friendly and allows people to work easily in the fields while wearing it.

Bamboo Mesh Dustbins and Baskets: In this region of heavy rainfall, bamboo mesh dustbins are used instead of plastic ones; this design prevents water accumulation while retaining the waste. Bamboo baskets are also used for carrying goods and for agricultural tasks.

4. Diet Based on Local Resources: They make daily use of forest produce and local crops—such as pineapples, jackfruit, and raw betel nut (*tamul*)—sourcing their food directly from nature.

In Meghalaya, the 'Knup' serves as a traditional, natural form of rain gear (a waterproof covering) that protects against heavy rain and mist.

It is used in the following ways:

1. Method of Wearing (Hands-free Protection): The Knup is worn or strapped over the head, shoulders, and back in such a way that it fully covers the shoulders and elbows. Wearing it leaves both hands completely free.

2. Use in Fields and Daily Activities: Members of the Khasi community wear it while performing agricultural work in the fields, walking in heavy rain, or carrying loads.

3. Protection of Goods and Crops: It is strapped onto the back like a cover, protecting items carried on the back—such as soil, manure, harvested grass, or other goods—from getting wet in the rain. 4.   Eco-friendly waterproof material: It is crafted from a bamboo framework and palm leaves, making it completely waterproof and lightweight.

The  Knup is more practical than a traditional umbrella because, while wearing it, people can easily continue their work even amidst torrential rain.

Deep religious and cultural beliefs of the Khasi community are associated with the Mawphlang Sacred Forest:

1. Abode of deities and spirits: The Khasi tribe firmly believes that their deities and spirits reside in this sacred forest.

2. Strict prohibition on removing anything from the forest: It is strictly forbidden to take anything—be it a leaf, a blade of grass, a piece of wood, or even a *Rudraksha* bead fallen on the ground—out of the grove. It is believed that removing anything without the deities' permission constitutes theft, and the person doing so might face misfortune or an untoward incident.

3. Tradition of special rituals and sacrifices: Whenever the Khasi community faced a crisis or needed to perform a religious ritual, people would come to this forest to worship and offer animal sacrifices (particularly bulls).

4. Holy Trees: Many ancient and sacred trees and plants exist within this forest, including Rudraksha trees.

5. Conservation spanning over 800 years:  Mawphlang (where 'Mao' means stone and 'Phlang' means grass) is located in a Khasi heritage village. This grove has been completely preserved for over 800 years. There are more than 150 such sacred groves in Meghalaya, but tourists are permitted to enter only the Mawphlang  grove.