Shillong: Communities across Meghalaya’s Khasi-Jaintia Hills observed Unitarian Anniversary Day in Shillong on Friday, marking 139 years since the indigenous Unitarian movement began in the region.
The annual observance featured prayer meetings and community gatherings, highlighting the religious and cultural importance of Ka Niam Unitarian, a faith deeply connected to Khasi-Jaintia society and indigenous traditions.
The anniversary traces its origins to September 18, 1887, when Hajom Kissor Singh, recognised as the founder of the Unitarian movement in the Khasi-Jaintia Hills, conducted the first Unitarian prayer service at his residence in Jowai. The event is regarded as a significant milestone in the development of the indigenous religious movement, which has since established a distinct identity while retaining close connections with Khasi culture and traditional values.
In a post on X, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma wrote: “On the 139th Unitarian Day, we honour a unique spiritual tradition that has deep roots in the Khasi region. My warmest greetings to the Unitarian community of Meghalaya on this special occasion. May this day be a celebration of faith, peace and the values that continue to inspire generations. Wishing everyone a blessed and meaningful Unitarian Day.”
For followers, Unitarian Anniversary Day represents more than a commemoration of the faith’s historical beginnings. It serves as an occasion to renew their commitment to the principles of spirituality, social responsibility, community service and peaceful coexistence.
Over the decades, the movement has remained part of Meghalaya’s cultural and religious landscape, particularly in areas inhabited by Khasi and Jaintia communities. The observance also allows members to reflect on the contributions of earlier generations in establishing and sustaining the faith, while passing its values on to younger generations.
Prayer services and community programmes held on the occasion underlined the importance of collective participation in preserving religious traditions and cultural identity.
The 139th anniversary marks another year in the history of the Unitarian movement in the Khasi-Jaintia Hills, reaffirming its continuing presence in Meghalaya’s diverse religious and cultural environment. The observance highlighted the faith’s enduring emphasis on belief, ethical living, community relations and service to humanity.
(IANS)
