Shillong: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Monday joined the “Seng Khasi” (indigenous tribal faith) for a prayer at the sanctum sanctorum of the sacred peak, U Lum Sohpetbneng (Navel of the Universe), atop the 1,344-metre high peak.
He offered a prayer for the well-being, growth and prosperity of ‘Ka Mei Ri India’ (Bharat Mata) and all her citizens.
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RSS sources said the prayer was offered by the head priest of Seng Khasi, Skor Jala, and culminated in rituals unique to the indigenous faith, Niam Khasi, where Bhagwat participated.
Sanctified rice was distributed and the RSS chief ended the brief solemn occasion by planting a sapling within the sacred precincts.
Seng Khasi is a socio-cultural and religious organisation formed on November 23, 1899, by sixteen young Khasi men to protect, preserve and promote the indigenous way of life and religion of the Khasis.
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It was 123 years later that the Seng Khasi has grown to more than 300 branches across the Khasi Hills and continues to endeavour in its cause in bringing pride to the people by strengthening their roots and identity, the RSS source said.
Bhagwat in his very brief speech expressed his profound gratitude for having experienced Monday’s ‘darshan’.
The RSS chief said he would carry forward the sacred message in the whole country of U Lum Sohpetbneng, that the golden bridge that connects Man and God now lives within a golden heart.
The summit of U Lum Sohpetbneng, about 16 km from Shillong, is believed to be the spot where a golden bridge connected man to the heavens.
The RSS chief left Shillong for Guwahati on Monday afternoon for further deliberations.