26/07/2026
The Megalithic Culture
A defining feature of the ancient history of the Khasi and Jaintia people is the sustained practice of Megalithism , which continues in ritual form even today . These practices offer insight into the socio - religious structure of the early inhabitants .
Purpose and Structure of Megaliths
Megalithic sites served multiple , integrated functions :
Ossuaries : Stones often mark the resting place of bones after secondary burial rites .
Memorials : They memorialized ancestors , particularly founding members of clans ( Iawbei ) .
Boundaries : Large stones served as markers for village or state ( Hima ) boundaries .
The primary megalithic structures are :
1. Menhirs ( Mawbynna ) : Tall , upright stones , usually representing the male ancestors ( U Shynrang ) .
2. Dolmens ( Kyllang ) : Flat , horizontal table stones supported by smaller stones, traditionally representing the female ancestor ( Ka lawbei ) .
