SHILLONG, Feb 3 ? The annual pilgrimage to the sacred U Lum Sohpetbneng peak in Umiam, about 20 kms from here was organised today drawing thousands of followers of the Khasi traditional faith from all parts of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. The day-long pilgrimage, was organised by the Seng Khasi, the spiritual and cultural custodian of the ?Hynniewtrep? people comprising the Khasi and Jaintia races. The Hynniewtrep community fondly regards the Sohpetbneng peak as the trusted divine sentinel, jealously guarding the spiritual belief, the territorial integrity and cultural heritage of the Khasi race.
According to belief, a golden vine ladder, from atop the Sohpetbneng peak connected the earth and heaven in the age of innocence. Sixteen families used the ladder to ascend and descend to the skies above and earth below. Over time, the ladder was severed, leaving nine families in their celestrical abode while the remaining seven stayed back on earth to give birth to the ?seven-huts-Hynniewtrep?.
Thus, the golden bridge today symbolises the spiritual communion between the Hynniewtrep and God the creator. Worship, obeisance and thanks-giving were offered on the occasion seeking signs of divination. The annual pilgrimage has been recently included in the calendar of events of the Meghalaya tourism department which is also developing the site as a destination for tourists.