SSC Stenographer 2026 PYQ — Question 39

Solution: The correct answer is Tangmuri.

Explanation:
☛ The Nongkrem dance is an important religious festival celebrated by the Khasi tribe of Meghalaya.
☛ During this festival, the melodic music is played on the Tangmuri, which is a traditional Khasi wooden wind instrument (pipe).
☛ The music of the Tangmuri, accompanied by traditional drums (Nakara and Ksing), guides the rhythmic movements of both male and female dancers.
☛ This annual festival is celebrated at Smit, the cultural headquarters of the Khyrim Syiemship, to pray for good harvests and the prosperity of the people.

Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Tangmuri: It is a double-reed wind instrument held sacred and played during major rituals and socio-cultural festivals among the Khasis.
☛ Been / Pungi: These are traditional wind instruments made of gourd and bamboo, primarily associated with snake charmers and folk music in North India and Rajasthan (Kalbelia dance).
☛ Shehnai: A classical Indian double-reed wind instrument, famously played across India during weddings and auspicious ceremonies, popularized worldwide by Ustad Bismillah Khan.
☛ Pomblang Nongkrem: A major goat sacrifice ritual associated with the Nongkrem festival dedicated to the goddess Ka Blei Synshar.

Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ 'Shad Suk Mynsiem' is a thanksgiving festival celebrated by which tribe of Meghalaya? → Khasi tribe
☛ Which harvest festival of Meghalaya is also known as the 'Festival of 100 Drums'? → Wangala Festival (celebrated by Garos)
☛ 'Behdienkhlam' is a major socio-religious festival of which tribe of Meghalaya? → Jaintia (Pnars)
☛ Which traditional drum of Meghalaya is played along with the Tangmuri during Khasi dances? → Ksing (or Nakara)
☛ Who was the legendary maestro who popularized the Shehnai on the global classical stage? → Ustad Bismillah Khan