Teesta Review: A
Journal of Poetry, Volume 9, Number 1. May 2026. ISSN: 2581-7094
Pascal Mario Kmenlang Pathaw’s Artwork
In the heart of Khasi folklore lies the poignant tale of Lapalang, a
spirited stag who climbed the Khasi Hills against his mother’s plea, only to
meet a tragic end at the hands of hunters. This narrative serves as a metaphor
for the perils of venturing into unfamiliar territories. His mother (depicted
in the background), witnessing the tragic scene, laments:
"Waw,
ka la shet ka 'tieh pongdeng ia ka rynieng u kynrem reng; Waw, u la kjit u nam
sarang ia ka mynsiem u Lapalang.”
In my illustration, I have depicted three huntsmen, with the foremost
releasing his arrow. The alignment of the three arrows embodies the Khasi
symbolism associated with a male child’s naming ceremony: To protect oneself,
To protect the family and To protect the motherland.
This triad of protection resonates deeply within
Khasi society and is prominently featured in the emblems of organizations
dedicated to safeguarding the land from external dominance and unchecked
influx. In this context, Lapalang is portrayed as an intruder, symbolizing the
challenges faced in preserving cultural and territorial integrity.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bio:
Pascal Mario Kmenlang
Pathaw is an architect, designer, illustrator, and researcher whose work
integrates indigenous Khasi-Jaintia cultural narratives with contemporary
design practices. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Design at Indian Institute of Technology
Guwahati, he engages in multidisciplinary work spanning architecture, visual
communication, illustration, and research. His projects range from mural work
at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in East Khasi Hills to graphic design, logo
systems, and culturally rooted visual storytelling. Deeply invested in
semiotics and indigenous iconology, his work explores how traditional symbols
and narratives can be reinterpreted in modern contexts through books, comics,
murals, and identity design. Alongside his creative practice, he contributes to
academic discourse through teaching, lectures, and conference presentations,
and has been recognised with awards such as the Meghalaya State Emblem Award
and the Youth Icon Award, reflecting his growing influence in the field of
indigenous visual culture.
****************