The Origin of Teer: How the Traditional Archery Game Began in Meghalaya

Teer, the unique archery-based lottery game, is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Meghalaya, a state in northeastern India. Today, it is played daily in Shillong, Khanapara, Juwai, and other parts of the region, attracting thousands of players who try their luck in guessing the right numbers. But how did Teer begin, and what are its cultural origins?

A Game Born from Tradition

Teer, which means “arrow” in Hindi, originally started as a traditional form of archery practiced by the Khasi tribes in Meghalaya. Archery has always been an important part of Khasi tribal life, both as a sport and a hunting technique. Over time, this traditional practice evolved into a structured game.

In the early 20th century, local archery clubs, known as Teer counters, were formed in Shillong. At that time, the game was mainly for recreation and community bonding. However, locals soon began betting on the number of arrows that would hit the target in each session. This gave rise to the number-based betting system that defines Teer today.

Legal Recognition and Growth

In 1982, the government of Meghalaya officially recognized Teer as a legal game under the Meghalaya Amusements and Betting Tax Act. Unlike many forms of gambling in India, Teer became a state-regulated activity. Each day, archers from licensed clubs shoot hundreds of arrows at a cylindrical target, and the number of arrows hitting the target determines the “winning number.”

This unique format, blending traditional sport with modern-day betting, helped Teer gain massive popularity across Meghalaya and parts of Assam.

Cultural and Economic Impact

For many in the region, Teer is not just a game of luck — it’s a way of life. People often consult local number experts, interpret dreams to choose numbers, and follow age-old systems passed down through generations.

Economically, Teer supports thousands of people — from ticket sellers and archers to small businesses that operate near Teer counters. The game has created a micro-economy that thrives around the excitement of the daily results.