On 25th September 1956, during the rise of the Naga movement for self-determination, my beautiful village, Mekokla, was tragically burned to the ground by the Indian army in an attempt to suppress the movement. Forced to flee, the entire village sought refuge in the jungles, where they lived for over a year, enduring untold hardships.
Their time in the jungle was filled with unimaginable challenges—mosquitoes carrying malaria claimed many lives, and survival became a daily struggle. However, the memories of that time are immortalized in the songs they composed, keeping their stories alive for future generations. While the pain and suffering were immense, there was also a beautiful side to their experience—an unbreakable bond of love, unity, and determination among the villagers, all driven by the hope of a better future for their children.
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Today, our village stands stronger and more united than ever. Reflecting on this day, I pay homage to all of them—most of whom are no longer with us—for their sacrifice, perseverance, and unconditional love. Their determination to face any challenge must be honored and remembered.
Even more admirable is their capacity for forgiveness. Despite the suffering inflicted upon them, they chose to forgive the soldiers responsible for their hardships. Their strength in both endurance and compassion is a legacy that continues to inspire us. The story of Mekokla village speaks volumes about courage, unity, and the power of forgiveness in the face of immense adversity.
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This history, passed down through generations, not only preserves our cultural identity but also teaches valuable lessons of compassion and endurance. The burning of the village into ashes destroyed countless cherished memories, embodied in the material possessions passed down through generations. These heirlooms, which connected the present to the past, were lost forever. With the destruction of their belongings came the loss of many beautiful memories of their ancestors, which had been preserved in those items. The loss was not just physical but deeply emotional, as the tangible links to their heritage and history vanished in the flames.
Like Mekokla, hundreds of other villages were reduced to ashes simply because the people desired to live in the freedom they had always known. The struggle for self-determination came at a heavy cost, as communities were uprooted and livelihoods destroyed in the pursuit of a future where they could live with dignity and autonomy. The resilience of these villages remains a testament to their unyielding spirit, even in the face of such devastating loss.
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Yet, amidst this devastation, the spirit of the villagers remained unbroken. Though their material past was lost, the memories live on in their hearts, in the stories, songs, and traditions passed down to future generations. On this 68th anniversary, I offer my deepest love, respect, and admiration for the unyielding love, sacrifice, and determination of our ancestors. Despite the immense challenges they faced, they remained unshaken in their resolve to secure a better future for us. Their courage and selflessness continue to inspire us today, and their legacy will forever be etched in our hearts.
(Prof. Zuchamo Yanthan teaches in New Delhi. He may be reached at zuchamo@gmail.com)
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