In the lush, hilly landscapes of Meghalaya, a northeastern state of India, a unique blend of
tradition, skill, and chance unfolds every day as the sun begins to set. This spectacle is known as
Teer, an indigenous archery-based game that is more than just a local pastime—it is a cultural
phenomenon where the ancient art of archery meets the unpredictable twist of luck.
Though it may appear simple at first glance, Teer is a deeply rooted tradition that brings together
history, gambling, sport, and community. Over time, it has evolved from a local tribal practice
into a legal, state-regulated lottery system that draws thousands of players from across
Meghalaya and neighboring states. For many, Teer is not just a game—it is a way of life.
What is Teer?
Teer (which means "arrow" in Hindi) is a betting game based on the number of arrows shot
during an archery session. It is officially conducted by several licensed clubs under the oversight
of the Meghalaya Amusement and Betting Tax Act, and primarily takes place in the state’s
capital, Shillong, although it is also played in other districts.
The basic premise of the game is simple: Players place bets on numbers ranging from 0 to 99,
and the winning number is derived from the total number of arrows hitting the target in a
daily archery contest. Despite this simplicity, Teer is steeped in unpredictability and mystique,
and much of its charm lies in the blend of skill and randomness that governs the outcomes.
How Teer Works
The Betting Process
Each day is divided into two rounds: First Round and Second Round. Players place their bets at
licensed counters or agents before noon. For each round, players choose a number between 0 and
99. These numbers are based on predictions, superstitions, or interpretations of dreams—a
practice known locally as "dream analysis".
The cost of placing a bet can be as low as ₹1 (a little over a penny), and the winning payout is
significantly higher—often ₹80 to ₹90 for a ₹1 bet in the first round, and even more in the
second round. Some bettors place money on both rounds, hoping to increase their chances of
winning.
The game takes place at a designated Teer ground where archers, usually tribal men from local
clubs, shoot arrows at a cylindrical target made of hay. In the first round, each of the 50 archers shoots 30 arrows, and in the second round, they shoot 20 arrows. The total number of arrows
that actually hit the target is then counted manually.
The last two digits of the total number of arrows that hit the target become the winning number.
For example, if 768 arrows hit the target, the winning number is 68.
The results are announced in the afternoon, usually around 3:30 PM for the first round and
4:30 PM for the second round, and displayed on notice boards and online platforms.
The Cultural Significance of Teer
While Teer is essentially a gambling game, it is also an expression of local identity and tradition.
Archery holds historical importance for many tribes in Meghalaya, particularly the Khasi and
Jaintia communities. What started as a demonstration of hunting skills evolved into a structured
competition, and later into a lottery-style betting system. Today, Teer stands as a fusion of
indigenous sport and modern enterprise.
Every day, scores of people—from laborers and farmers to office-goers—participate in this
ritual, making their predictions and placing their bets. For many, the daily routine of visiting a
Teer counter is not just about winning money but about being part of something familiar and
communal.
Teer is also a source of livelihood for many people: from the archers and ticket sellers to those
who run small eateries or stalls near the Teer counters. In fact, the revenue generated from the
game contributes to the state’s economy through licensing and taxes.
The Role of Dreams and Numerology
One of the most intriguing aspects of Teer is the widespread belief in interpreting dreams to
predict the winning number. Players often analyze symbols, scenarios, or characters that appear
in their dreams and associate them with specific numbers based on local dream charts and
folklore.
For example, dreaming about a snake might correspond to a number like 17, while dreaming of a
wedding might relate to 06. This blend of superstition, psychology, and numerology gives Teer a
mystical quality, elevating it from a mere game of chance to something almost spiritual for its
devotees.
Teer in the Digital Age
With the rise of mobile phones and Teer Results internet access, Teer has also moved into the
digital realm. Although the betting itself is still largely offline due to legal restrictions, the results
are now posted on websites and mobile apps. This has made the game more accessible to players
who are not physically present at the location.
Several websites have emerged Shillong Teer Result that publish daily Teer results, dream number
interpretations, previous outcomes, and even prediction tips. Social media groups and WhatsApp
communities also buzz with daily forecasts, number theories, and success stories.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Teer is unique in being one of the few state-recognized and regulated betting games in India.
Unlike most forms of gambling that are banned or operate in legal grey areas, Teer is perfectly
legal in Meghalaya and functions under the guidance of local district administrations.
However, this legality does not entirely shield it from criticism. Concerns have been raised about
addiction, financial strain on low-income families, and the lack of awareness regarding the odds
of winning. Like any gambling system, Teer carries risks, especially when individuals wager
beyond their means.
Efforts have been made by the government to regulate the game, ensure transparency in result
announcements, and prevent underage participation. Public awareness campaigns are also
occasionally run to educate people about responsible gambling.
Conclusion
Teer is more than a game—it is a living tradition that continues to thrive in modern Meghalaya.
It combines archery, a revered tribal skill, with the unpredictability of luck and the human
tendency to seek patterns and meaning. For the people of the region, it is a social ritual, an
economic activity, and sometimes even a spiritual quest.