Longsa Village held a monolith foundation stone programme on April 25 to preserve its history dating back to AD 1258.
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LONGSA — A monolith foundation stone erection programme was held at Longsa Village of Mokokchung district on April 25, contributing to the documentation and preservation of the village’s historical legacy, which dates back to AD 1258.
The monolith, erected as a symbol of Longsa’s origin, acknowledges the Riongsanger generation and the forefathers of the three clans that founded the village – Kongka, Sani (Pongener clan), Rentsüba (Longkumer/Meyur clan) and Metsübo (Jamir clan).
The foundation stone was inaugurated by former bureaucrat Alemtemshi Jamir who, in his address, emphasised the importance of history in understanding one’s identity and roots.
He said that questions relating to one’s origin, family, and village define an individual, and without such knowledge, a person remains unrecognised.
He described the erection of the monolith as a significant step in preserving the history of Longsa Village, its people, and its founding clans, while also acknowledging the present Mejensanger Putu (generation).
Jamir expressed hope that more efforts would be made in the future towards documenting the village’s history.
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He emphasised that the significance of the monolith goes beyond the founding of the village, and lies in reflecting on how the community has lived and progressed over several centuries.
He also recalled his father N I Jamir who had once expressed a desire to write the history of Longsa “in alphabets of gold.”
Referring to the lives of the forefathers, he noted that despite the absence of modern facilities such as transportation, they sustained themselves through agriculture and undertook journeys across villages, upholding dignity and honour.
Jamir added that the monolith serves as a reminder of the endurance and legacy of the ancestors, and of the village’s long-standing existence spanning over seven centuries.
He further stated that Longsa Village has contributed to public service over the years, including during the British period and after statehood, with several individuals serving in the state administration.
He urged the present generation to continue contributing while remaining mindful of their responsibilities and not forgetting their roots and identity.
Earlier, Tatar Limaakum spoke on the significance of the monolith. Short speeches were delivered by Tatar Akangjungshi and Tatar Temjensosang.
The programme was chaired by Tatar Bendangwati.
Rev. Supongchiten, Pastor of Longsa Baptist Church, offered the invocation, while Tatar Alemwati delivered the vote of thanks. The closing prayer was pronounced by Temsuyanger, Secretary, Longsa Baptist Church.