Laban: The Cultural Heartbeat of Shillong

• Helloनमस्ते
  [namaste]
• Goodbyeअलविदा
  [alvida]
• Yesहाँ
  [haan]
• Noनहीं
  [nahin]
• Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [krupaya]
• Thank youधन्यवाद
  [dhanyavaad]
• Excuse me/Sorryक्षमा करें
  [kshama karein]
• How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। और आप?
  [thik hoon. aur aap?]
• Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेजी बोलते हैं?
  [kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
• I don't understandमुझे समझ में नहीं आया
  [mujhe samajh mein nahin aaya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनू देखना चाहूँ
  [krupaya menu dekhna chahoon]
• I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता
  [main maans nahin khata]
• Cheers!चियर्स!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मैं चुकाना चाहूँ
  [krupaya main chukaana chahoon]

• Help!बचाओ!
  [bachao!]
• Go away!चले जाओ!
  [chale jao!]
• Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [police ko bulaao!]
• Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [doctor ko bulaao!]
• I'm lostमैं खो गया हूँ
  [main kho gaya hoon]
• I'm illमुझे बीमारी है
  [mujhe bimaari hai]

• I'd like to buy...मैं खरीदना चाहूँ...
  [main khareedna chahoon...]
• I'm just lookingमैं बस देख रहा हूँ
  [main bas dekh raha hoon]
• How much is it?यह कितना है?
  [yah kitna hai?]
• That's too expensiveयह बहुत महंगा है
  [yah bahut mahanga hai]
• Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?अब कितने बजे हैं?
  [ab kitne baje hain?]
• It's one o'clockएक बजे हैं
  [ek baje hain]
• Half past (10)दस बजे तक
  [das baje tak]
• Morningसुबह
  [subah]
• Afternoonदोपहर
  [dopahar]
• Eveningशाम
  [shaam]
• Yesterdayकल
  [kal]
• Todayआज
  [aaj]
• Tomorrowकल
  [kal]
• 1एक
  [ek]
• 2दो
  [do]
• 3तीन
  [teen]
• 4चार
  [chaar]
• 5पांच
  [paanch]
• 6छह
  [chhah]
• 7सात
  [saat]
• 8आठ
  [aath]
• 9नौ
  [nau]
• 10दस
  [das]

• Where's a/the...?कहाँ है...?
  [kahaan hai...?]
• What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं (नक्शे पर)?
  [kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain (naksha par)?]
• When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [agli (bus) kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (.... के लिए)
  [ek ticket (.... ke liye)]

Laban, located on the outskirts of Shillong, has significant historical importance dating back to the British colonial period in the 19th century. It served as a principal residential area for British officials and their families, reflecting the architectural styles and urban planning of colonial times. The area is characterized by its large bungalows and sprawling gardens, which were indicative of the lifestyles enjoyed by the British elite during their rule.

Over the years, Laban has transformed into a vibrant cultural melting pot, showcasing a blend of Khasi traditions and influences from other communities. The neighborhood is home to several important educational institutions, including St. Edmund's College, which has played a significant role in shaping the intellectual landscape of Shillong. The local festivals, such as the Khasi harvest festival, are celebrated with great enthusiasm, reflecting the area's rich cultural heritage.

Laban has been pivotal in the political landscape of Meghalaya, particularly in the Khasi Hills. The area has produced several notable political leaders and activists who have contributed to the region's quest for autonomy and statehood. The Khasi Students' Union, a prominent student organization, was active in Laban, advocating for the rights of the Khasi people and influencing local governance.

The architectural heritage of Laban showcases a unique blend of colonial and indigenous styles. Notable buildings, such as the Laban Presbyterian Church, reflect the influence of British architecture intertwined with local designs. This mix not only serves as a testament to the area's history but also as a focal point for community gatherings and religious activities.

After India's independence in 1947, Laban witnessed significant urban development, transitioning from a colonial outpost to a bustling urban neighborhood. The introduction of modern amenities and infrastructural developments has made Laban an attractive residential area. However, the neighborhood has managed to retain its historical charm and cultural significance amidst the changes.

Laban is well-connected to other neighborhoods in Shillong. You can reach Laban by hiring a taxi, which is the most convenient option. Local buses also operate from major parts of the city, including Police Bazar and Khyndailad, to Laban. The journey typically takes around 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. For those coming from the Shillong Airport, taxis are available, and the journey takes about an hour.

Laban is a compact neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. However, for longer distances, local taxis are available and are a popular mode of transportation. Auto-rickshaws can also be found for short trips. Bicycles are not commonly used for public transport, but you can rent one to explore the area at your leisure.

Laban is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to exercise caution like in any urban area. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded places. It is recommended to avoid walking alone late at night in less frequented areas. Areas near the local market can get busy, so keep an eye on your belongings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance or 108 for medical emergencies. The local hospitals and clinics are equipped to handle urgent cases. It is advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Laban for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs; it is polite to remove shoes when entering homes or religious places. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly individuals; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a smile and a handshake; don't use overly casual language with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Khasi cuisine and accept food offerings graciously; don't waste food or show dissatisfaction with local dishes.

To experience Laban like a local, visit the local markets for fresh produce and unique handicrafts. Engage with the community; locals are friendly and often willing to share stories about their culture and traditions. Attend local festivals if you can, as they provide a deeper insight into the customs of the Khasi people. Don't miss the chance to visit local cafes to enjoy traditional Khasi meals and beverages.