Teer is not just a game—it’s a tradition, a daily ritual, and a cultural symbol for many in Meghalaya, especially in Shillong and the surrounding Khasi Hills. Known formally as the Shillong Teer, this unique game combines archery with lottery, attracting thousands of participants and onlookers every day.

What is Teer?

Teer (which means “arrow” in Hindi) is a legal betting game based on the outcome of an archery competition. Organized by the Khasi Hills Archery Sports Association, it involves archers shooting hundreds of arrows at a target in two rounds. The total number of arrows that hit the target in each round forms the Teer number, which is used as the basis for betting.

People place bets on what they predict will be the last two digits of the total number of arrows that hit the target. For example, if the total number is 843, the winning number is 43.

How the Game Works

Two rounds are held each day except Sunday.
In the first round, 50 archers shoot 30 arrows each.
In the second round, the same archers shoot 20 arrows.
After each round, the total number of arrows that hit the target is counted.
Bettors win if their guessed number matches the last two digits of the result.

The first round’s results are usually announced at 3:45 PM, and the second round’s at 4:45 PM.

Legal and Cultural Significance

Unlike many forms of gambling in India, Teer is completely legal in Meghalaya and regulated under the Meghalaya Amusements and Betting Tax Act. The government not only collects revenue from it but also considers it a way to support local sports and traditional skills.

More than just a betting game, Teer is a part of local culture. It’s common for players to use dreams, astrology, or symbolic events to guess the winning numbers—a fascinating mix of superstition and strategy that makes the game even more intriguing.

Economic Impact

Teer supports thousands of livelihoods in Meghalaya. From ticket sellers and archers to food vendors near the shooting grounds, the game has created a small ecosystem. It also helps promote and preserve the indigenous sport of archery among local youth.

Teer in the Modern Era

With the rise of mobile phones and the internet, many people now look for Teer common numbers, dream numbers, and predictions online. There are numerous websites and YouTube channels that try to help players pick the best numbers. While these predictions aren’t always accurate, they reflect the deep enthusiasm people have for the game.

Final Thoughts

Teer is more than just a form of entertainment or a lottery—it’s a social activity rooted in Meghalaya’s history and identity. For locals, it blends tradition, sport, luck, and livelihood. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned bettor, witnessing a Teer game in action is a unique cultural experience you won’t forget.

Teer: Meghalaya’s Unique Blend of Tradition and Luck