Thousands take part in pilgrimage to heavenly peak

Umian, Meghalaya, Feb 3 (UNI) Thousands of indigenous people today participated in the annual pilgrimage to the Lum Sohpetbneng or "umbilical heavenly peak" in Meghalaya.

According to Khasi mythology, Lum Sohpetbneng is scripted in the deep-rooted belief of the origin of the tribal Khasi people, fondly calling themselves - The Hynniewtrep- "The Seven Huts", who belong to the divine family of the sixteen huts and nests, traversing through a golden-bridge, linking heaven and earth from atop the sacred umbilical heavenly peak.

The ceremony began with prayers at the foot of the peak and followed by the main rituals and religious rites at the sanctum sanctorum on the peak to invoke the creator's blessings for peace, prosperity and well being of the people.

"It is not just about our well being but the pilgrimage is our way to show respect to the different elements of nature," Eva Sohliya said. Sanctified rice grains and water were distributed on the occasion to gain the spiritual contentment and good health.

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