The Khasis

The Khasis is a comprehensive anthropological study of the Khasi people an indigenous tribe living in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills in northeast India. Written by P. R. T. Gurdon who conducted extensive fieldwork among the Khasis the book delves into the tribes history culture religion economy social structure and political organization. The book begins by tracing the Khasis origin myths and their migration to the hills and goes on to describe their traditional way of life including their matrilineal family system agricultural practices and religious beliefs. Gurdon also examines the impact of British colonialism on the Khasis and how it led to changes in their economy and political organization. Throughout the book Gurdon provides a detailed and nuanced portrayal of the Khasis drawing on his firsthand observations as well as historical and ethnographic sources. The Khasis remains an important work on the tribe and continues to be a valuable resource for scholars and anyone interested in the anthropology and history of northeast India.