The Khasis

The book offers a thorough portrait of the Khasi people who inhabit the mist‑clad hills of northeastern India. Drawing on observations of daily life, it details their customs, social organization, legal practices and religious beliefs, giving listeners a clear sense of how community and tradition intertwine in this distinctive culture. The author also explores the theories surrounding the Khasis’ origins and their linguistic connections, presenting the material in a way that feels both scholarly and accessible.

Compiled by a busy district officer, the work reflects a collaborative effort involving missionaries, local scholars and officials who contributed legends, language notes and valuable illustrations. Rich, colour plates and photographs bring the landscape and its people to life, while a dedicated section on folklore shares the myths and stories that have shaped Khasi identity for generations. Listeners will come away with a nuanced understanding of a society that balances ancient practices with the challenges of a changing world.