Two identical monoliths called Mamashi Long to signify peace between Süngratsü and Mongsenyimti villages under Mokokchung district were unveiled at both the villages on December 27.
The monoliths were unveiled by Chuba Ozukum, Consultant, Department of Law and Justice.
Taka Longchar, Chairman, Village Council Süngratsü narrated that, according to oral history, six forefathers (three from Süngratsü and three from Mongsenyimti) undertook the task to make peace between the two villages by exchanging spears and machetes to signify peace and friendship.
“If we revisit the annals of history,” Longchar said, “there might have been a higher calling that inspired our six peacemakers to bring peace between the two villages and we are enjoying the peace laid down by them which is around 140 years today.”
The peacemakers from Süngratsü village were Kariba Longchar (descendant of Kariba), Metongsangba Aier (descendant of Süngkopamen) and Chakpashingang Longchar (descendant of Nokjen) while the peacemakers from Mongsenyimti village were Imnanungsang Ozukum (descendant of Nokpenjang), Imyangerba Ozukum (descendant of Nokojungba) and Longjangrumen (descendant of Ilangba).
Chuba Ozukum also acknowledged the peacemakers for their spirit of truth in their deeds to bring peace and bestowing the legacy of long-lasting peace to their generations, besides bringing the two villages together which still exist to this day.
He said the ordeal they went through to forge peace between the two villages because of their sheer commitment and determination to bring peace is remarkable. In this regard, he encouraged the descendants of the six peacemakers to work towards strengthening the peace as the monoliths of their peacemaking initiation are unveiled today.
“We hope that the footprints of peace we left behind will garner unity and peace in both the villages,” he said.
He further suggested the descendants of the peacemakers to document the historic deeds initiated by the six forefathers for future generations.
Relief sculpture on both the monoliths was carved by Wapang Ozukum, Governor’s Award recipient (Fine Arts), a descendant of Nokojungba.