Ukhrul, May 19: The statue of legendary lovers Shimreishang Zimikwo and Maitonphi Longleng was unveiled on Monday at the premises of the Mini Secretariat Complex, Ukhrul, by Asish Das (IAS), Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul.
This sculpture was commissioned and donated by Kengoo Zuringla (IAS) in collaboration with like-minded friends committed to preserving Tangkhul Naga culture and history. Kengoo Zuringla is also known for her active promotion of Tangkhul traditional attire and is credited with the beautification of the Mini Secretariat Complex during her tenure as the Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul.
The artwork symbolizes the immortal love story of Shimreishang Zimikwo and Maitonphi Longleng of Phungcham Yangreiram.
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Forbidden to marry due to their different social classes and the strong social mores of the time, Maitonphi was secretly married off to Pansa Vasah of Halang Village. Shimreishang died of a broken heart. They could only be reunited in the afterlife. To this day, their love story has been passed down through seven generations.
The statue was created by Zeno Chiphang, Phanitphang Sareo, R.S. Mayonmi, and Yungrei Kashung.