The Government of Nagaland, in partnership with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), observed Remembrance Day with solemn ceremonies and a special event reflecting on the historic Battle of Kohima. The day’s commemorations included a ceremony at the Kohima War Cemetery and a conversation event titled “The Battle of Kohima: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” held at Hotel Vivor.
Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio graced both occasions, highlighting the significance of the battle as a turning point in World War II and a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and unity. Dr. Rio recalled his mother’s stories of British soldiers during the war and his father’s service in the Assam Regiment, underscoring the deep historical ties of the Naga people to the conflict. “Our elders always remembered the British as generous and kind,” he said.
At the Kohima War Cemetery, Dr. Rio paid tribute to the 2,331 Allied soldiers who fell during the battle, calling the cemetery a “living testament to extraordinary courage.” He urged all to uphold peace and unity, quoting the Kohima Epitaph: “When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today.” Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also honoured the fallen soldiers, lauding their bravery and the enduring legacy of courage that continues to inspire.
British Deputy High Commissioner Bhaarat Dave thanked the Nagaland government for establishing the annual event, calling it “a fitting tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the fallen.” He reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to peace and friendship between the United Kingdom and India.
The ceremony included wreath-laying, a two-minute silence, prayers led by Bishop Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, and musical performances by the Cantabile Choir, Sunshine Orchestra, Vila Keditsu, Tajenyuba, and the Little Flower School Children Pipe Band. The Assam Rifles Pipe Band concluded the event with a bugle dismissal.
Earlier in the day, the District Core Committee held a conversation between Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister, and Mmhonlumo Kikon, scholar and author of His Majesty’s Headhunters: The Siege of Kohima That Shaped World History. The discussion revisited the battle’s history and its continued relevance, emphasizing Nagas’ humanitarian support during the war and the evolution of the battle’s legacy into one of reconciliation and peace. Kikon remarked, “This is the beginning of telling our stories, of how and why the battle happened, and what our people went through.” He highlighted how former enemies have become friends, noting visits by Japanese teams to the Naga Hills in search of fallen soldiers.
The event was attended by dignitaries from the British Deputy High Commission, Embassy of Ireland, British High Commission, Irish Embassy, scholars, researchers, and government representatives. A vintage car rally was also flagged off as part of the day’s programme.
Through these commemorations, Nagaland honours its shared history of bravery and sacrifice while reinforcing its commitment to peace, unity, and friendship across generations and borders. (With DIPR inputs)