Tucked away in the lush, rolling hills of Meghalaya, where foggy mornings are as common as folk tales, a remarkable tradition thrives—Teer Results. More than a lottery, it’s a cultural celebration that blends archery, mysticism, and community bonding into a singular spectacle.

Ancestral Roots and Sacred Arrows

Shillong Teer draws its essence from the Khasi tribe’s deep spiritual connection to archery. Long before it became a public pastime, archery was a sacred rite. Legend speaks of Shillong Teer Result, the goddess who granted the gift of archery to her children. In Khasi tradition, boys are given bows and arrows during their naming ceremonies, symbolizing this divine bond. These same tools accompany them to the afterlife—an arrow shot skyward as a spiritual sendoff.

By the 20th century, what began as sacred sport turned into a regulated activity. As informal village competitions grew popular, betting found its way into the mix. In 1982, Meghalaya formalized the practice through the Amusements and Betting Tax (Amendment) Act, transforming a cultural ritual into a legal form of gaming.

How Shillong Teer Works

Held at Shillong’s Polo Grounds from Monday to Saturday, the game is managed by the Khasi Hills Archery Sports Association. It unfolds in two distinct sessions:

• Morning Teer: 50 skilled archers release 30 arrows each.

• Evening Teer: 30 archers shoot 20 arrows each.

The twist? Participants wager on numbers between 00 and 99, guessing the last two digits of the total arrows that hit the target. So, if 754 arrows strike, the winning number is 54. Bets start as low as ₹1, but correct guesses can yield significant returns—up to ₹80 for a morning win and ₹60 for the evening round.

Superstition and Symbolism

Shillong Teer is as much about dreams as it is about data. Locals often interpret dreams as omens—seeing a snake might inspire a bet on 7, while a dream about lovers could point to 56 or 65. These symbolic links are passed down through families, giving the game a mystical layer.

The daily draws are a social event. Crowds gather to witness the archers and await the results, which are announced with great fanfare. The shared excitement creates a communal spirit, binding people through ritual and hope.

A Lifeline for Many

Beyond tradition, Shillong Teer supports thousands across Meghalaya. With more than 5,000 betting counters and over 10,000 people—archers, vendors, clerks—depending on it, the game fuels livelihoods. Daily wages for participants often surpass ₹400, making it a critical economic pillar.

The game also bolsters tourism and tax revenue. People from across Northeast India, especially neighboring Assam, travel to Shillong to try their luck or just experience the cultural thrill firsthand.

Preserving a Living Legacy

At its core, Shillong Teer is a vivid reflection of Meghalaya’s soul. It marries ancient customs with modern enterprise, ensuring a living tradition continues to enchant both locals and visitors. While it now functions as a legal betting game, its heart still beats with ancestral pride and spiritual reverence.