A viral Instagram video celebrating the strength and independence of women in Meghalaya has captured the attention of social media users across the globe. The clip, shared by Instagram user Grace Marbaniang, praises the women of the Jaintia Hills, highlighting their ability to excel in every sphere of life. The video’s central message — “There is nothing that women in Meghalaya cannot do” — has deeply resonated with viewers.
In the caption, Marbaniang applauds the hardworking women of the region and emphasises the pride of Meghalaya’s matrilineal society, where lineage and inheritance pass through the mother’s side. She writes that women in the state “literally run everything” and that Meghalaya remains one of the safest places in India for women.
The video showcases women carrying out a wide range of tasks, reflecting their resilience, skill and commitment to their work. This visual tribute has struck an emotional chord online, going viral with over 3 million views, 2 lakh likes, and more than 1,000 comments.
Many users joined the celebration in the comments section, expressing admiration for Meghalaya’s unique social system. One user wrote, “Whenever someone asks me about Meghalaya’s matrilineal society, I feel immense pride. The world has so much to learn from it.” Another suggested that the video could also highlight the participation of men in daily household chores, which further reinforces gender equality in the region.
A user commenting from Texas said, “Shoutout to all the beautiful women of Meghalaya and the North East. You deserve a big applause.”
The video has not only showcased the cultural identity of Meghalaya but also sparked conversations about gender equality, empowerment and the positive impact of matrilineal practices in modern society.
