The Monoliths......

Monoliths or memorial stones are found every where around the Khasi Hills. they are however not restricted only to being a memorial to death. As time went by ........social norms also went through various changes and these days these monoliths are also used to commemmorate certain events in the society . The khasis name these stones in the following manner....MAWLYNTI or MAWKJAT....erected as seat for spirits of the departed clanfolks. MAWBYNNA or MAWNAM for a parent or near relation. MAW-UMKOI to mark the source of water of which is suppose to cleanse the ashes of those who died unnaturally. MAWSHONGTHAIT or flat stones places near the market place or roadside serves as a place of rest for weary travellers when in the olden times people used to travel on foot.