Celebrated for three days every year, Behdienkhlam literally translates to “warding off the evil spirit” and this Hindu festival is marked by the Pnar people, the followers of the Niamtre tradition or the natives of Jowai, a scenic little plateau surrounded by the Jaintia hills. Behdienkhlam Festival is all about the spirit of Meghalaya and is based on the belief that health epidemics are an effect of the evil forces though it is also known as the harvesting festival of Meghalaya as it is meant to seek out a good harvest after sowing season.