Jaintia Tribe, also known as Pnar or Synteng, are the inhabitants of
Meghalaya. The Jaintia belongs to the Hynniewtrep branch of the Austric race. Their kingdom was the oldest one and the most widely spread over the hilly areas of the
Jaintia Hills District. This tribe is matrilineal in character and the youngest daughter inherits the familial property. The female infants and daughters are given much care and respect by the parents, in education and health. Jaintia people are rich in their cultural heritage.
Artistic weaving, wood-carving, cane and bamboo work are the main crafts of the tribe. Minor crafts include weaving of carpet and silk and the making of musical instruments, jewelry and pineapple fiber articles. The important festival celebrated by the Jaintias is the Behdiengkhlam, celebrated annually at Jowai in Jaintia Hills District in July.
