Our Correspondent
Mima | January 31
Located 19 km away from the capital Kohima, picturesque Mima village today observed Village Day here.
The village had undergone a challenging time to protect and preserve itself during the head-hunting days as well as in the Indo-Naga conflict. When Indian government came to control the Nagas, Mima village stood firm for the right of the Nagas and underwent deep struggles in the hands of the Indian government, according to a villager.
On December 4, 1956 the Indian government gave an order to vacate and the villagers left to neighboring village Kigwema. The whole village was burnt to ashes on April 17, 1957 by the Indian Army. On October 10, 1957, the government released order so the people could come back to the village. As the village started new constructions and farming, the Indo-Naga situation went bad and the villagers were chased away to Kigwema for the second time on December 10, 1961. Later, the government ordered the villagers to come back on January 9, 1962.
“Through these struggles of thick and thin, our good Lord has protected and guided us till the present day. Therefore, the village has set aside a day 31st January 2016 as commemoration of thanksgiving and invoking God’s grace,” the villager said, adding the village also pronounced the day as Village Day with a theme “Ku mu Kito” (Victory & Prosperity) by erecting a monolith.
The monolith was unveiled by Class-I contractor Vilelie Khamo, who graced the event as chief guest. Khamo expressed happiness over the large gathering of Mima community at the event. Recalling the series of peace treaty with several villages, he called upon Mima community to continue to maintain peace and cordial relationship with the neighboring villages.
Terming today’s gathering as a good beginning, he wanted to see that it becomes an annual feature to bring the community closer with better understanding and ultimately strengthen various organizations to work in unison for the welfare and betterment of Mima citizens elsewhere.
He also urged the youth to exercise good attitude and behaviour to attract inflow of tourists, which would in turn boost the economy of the village. He further challenged the community to give their best in whatever field they involve in to bring laurel and glory to the village.
He said each and every individual has to play their respective role and contribute towards the village prosperity and live up to village theme “Ku Mu Kito”. Khamo also urged upon Mima community who are away from the village to construct a house each in the village for dignity.
Later, he released a history of Mima village.
The function was chaired by ex- village council chairman Kho-o Pfukha, while Mima village council chairman Khriesavilie Khamo delivered welcome address. The occasion also witnessed greeting from GB Zhathose Keyie.
Folk song, special number, special gift to oldest man and woman in the village, mass prayer marked the occasion.
