Shad Thma is a warrior dance performed by the
Khasi tribe belonging to
Meghalaya. This dance symbolizes the authority of the woman as the family head. The male dancers must obtain the consent and blessing of the women before proceeding with the dance. Their costume consists of orange turbans, fringed jackets and trousers.
The dance is performed in pairs. The men showcase their combative skills in a series of movements. Wielding swords and shields they chase each other in the right direction followed by left, maintaining a balanced posture and pace. On completion of a round, the pairs attack each other with the swords and shields in a mock battle. They again execute the chase. Finally they bow to each other bringing an end to the performance.
The warriors are then welcomed back by the women folk. Water is sprinkled on their ankles by the women, as a symbolic cleansing of any thoughts relating to revenge.
