Heritage Explorer VOL. XX. NO.2, 2021 28 Pages, Size - A4 Demy A Monthly News Bulletin Contents

Editorial 4 Netaji’s birth anniversary celebrated Religious Rites of the Tribal at Chesezu Village of Nagaland 19 People of Tripura - Naresh Ch. Dev Varma 5 Transformed for self-protection - E. Rajesh Pathak 20 Rani Gaidinliu - Ramkui Newme 8 Tripura’s Tripurasundari Temple’ Tracing Roma Roots sanctioned Rs 37.8 Cr. for - Major Surendra Mathur 12 development 21 Death Defying Bear Hug: Major (Dr) Laishram Jyotin Singh, The Rituals of Tingkao Ashoka Chakra (Posthumous) Ragwang Chapriak (TRC) - Lt. Col. L Manongba 14 - Chaoba Kamson 22 History of McMohan Line : Bogus Chinese Claims Books, book fair and post-covid era - Group Capt. M. Panging Pao 18 -Dr Ranga Ranjan Das 24

Editorial Board Subscription may be sent by M.O./ Cheque / Chief Editor - Romen Chakraborty Demand Draft to : Editor - Amarendra Brahma Heritage Foundation, Members - Dr. Jnanendra Barman Bhuvan Road, Near GMC Office, Uzan Bazar Dr. Phirmi Bodo Guwahati-781001, Ph: 0361- 2636365 e-mail:[email protected], Website: Dr. Jyotirupa Sarma www.heritagefoundation.org.in Dr. Sodyong Kri (Please Mention Pin Code No. along with your full postal address in BLOCK Letters) Printed & Published by : Sri Rituparno Tamuli Phukan DDs/Cheques may please be drawn in favour of on behalf of Heritage Foundation, K.B.Road, Paltan Heritage Foundation. Bazar, Guwahati-781008 and Printed at: Angik Bank A/c with PNB, Guwahati, Prakashan, GNB Road, Guwahati - 781001 and A/c No. 3213 0001 0009 3631 Saraighat Offset Press, Bamunimaidan, Guwahati - IFSC : PUNB0321300 781021, Published from: Heritage Foundation, Or 100/- K.B.Road, Paltan Bazar, Guwahati - 781008 (Assam). Heritage Foundation. e-mail: [email protected], Website: Bank A/c with SBI, Chenikuthi, Guwahati A/c No. 3598 1047 410 www.heritagefoundation.org.in IFSC : SBIN0007976 Should the violence rule our protests

The way the gravity and the grandeur of the last be ruled anymore by the middlemen and loan sharks Republic Day was demolished compares only with the cannot fleece the poor farmers in future. This is why the vandalism let loose by Nadir Shah’s army on 22 March farmers of Punjab, Haryana and UP are so adamant 1739 in Delhi. The atrocities of Nadir Shah’s army, who about their single point agenda of repeal of the three came all the way from Persia to loot India, is quite farm laws. understandable because they were pure invaders and As we all know perfection is the other name of god had no affinity with the people of India. But the farmers and all human being are less than perfect. There may who vandalized the Red Fort, our prized possession have been some shortcomings and lacunas in the farm and the symbol of our sovereignty, were our own. How laws but these could have been sorted out amicably for could they behave like enemies and plunderers? To which the government had shown enough goodwill. understand this we need to go little deeper. Taking out tractor rallies on a day of national importance After the Narendra Modi led nationalist government and damaging and vandalizing the Red Fort, our nation’s came to power, the corrupt, greedy and power-seeking most revered heritage site is not the right way to solve a politicians as well as anti Indian elements could very problem. The Red Fort is a symbol of Independent India well visualize the writings on the wall. Being unscrupulous and thousands of people had laid down their lives for and cunning they could foresee their future and the country’s freedom and to see the national flag flying understood that unless they annihilate this government, atop the historic fort. Wielding sticks, clubs and swords there future will be hopeless. As birds of same feather and holding the tricolor and farm union flags in one hand, flocks together, all the disparate elements gave up their tractors breaking barriers, attacking police, entering the past rivalries and joined forces to discredit and oust the city from unauthorized entry points to lay siege of the Modi government from power. They hatched plans to Red Fort can only be termed as the most shameful act cause internal strife, religious disharmony amongst on their part. The actions on the part of those who claim Hindus and the Muslims and any and every smaller themselves as farmer have brought shame to the country. causes that may serve their purpose. They tried the anti- The farm leaders at the forefront of the agitation must CAA stir, Ant-NRC revolt and anti integration of Jammu own the responsibility of the agitation going astray and and Kashmir movement but could not achieve their goal atone for their failure, willful or unintended. The so called because the true sons and daughters of mother India farm union leaders allowed the Khalistanis to highjack have woken up and do not want to remain a silent the so far peaceful protest rallies. The leaders allowed spectator of the disintegration of their motherland any the frustrated opposition political leaders to flaunt more. The proof of their strong and unconditional solidarity with them. They have done great harm not support can be seen in the victories of BJP in state after only to the farmers they are supposed to lead, but also state. The combined forces of Mahagatbandhan led by badly dented the image of their own states. They Rahul-Sonia Gandhi, Kezriwal, Akhilesh Yadav, Mamta deliberately avoided striking a respectable deal with Bannerjee, pseudo intellectuals et all aided and abetted government in their eleven rounds of talks to appease by the Indian communists were forced to bite the dust. their inflated egos and have thus stalled the future The anti Indian foreign countries, especially those ruled investment and economic progress of their states. This by the Islamic zealots spent millions to finance their paid is not the way for democratic protest and the good of servants in India. The present anti farmer law movement many. is also one such attempt by vested interest groups, Let us retrospect and try to find a peaceful and decent especially the Canada based Indian capitalist farmers, path for an amicable and respectable settlement of the for if the enacted laws come into force, their hegemony Farmers Bill imbroglio. over the farm produce will be at peril. Mandis cannot Chief Editor

Heritage Explorer 4 February 2021 Religious Rites of the Tribal People of Tripura

Naresh Ch. Dev Varma

HISTORY deities of the Royal family of the State. These gods Tripura was the abode of tribal people. The kings and goddesses are now being worshiped by the mass of this State also belonged to a tribal community. people in a temple at old Agartala. The Chief Priest According to the RAJAMALA (The Chronicle of the of these gods and goddesses is called “Chantai”. The kings of Tripura) a king of Tripura who was the names of these gods and goddesses were named in contemporary with Yudhisthir, the eldest of the Sanskrit as— Pandavas of the Mahabharata era, was defeated by Haroma Harima Bani Kumaroganko Bidhih. Sahadev, the youngest of the Pandava, during the Riddhi Ganga Sikhee Kamo Himadrishcha time of the sacrificial rites (yajna) performed by Chaturdashah. Judhisthir. The Sanskrit Rajamala, the chronicle of (Sanskrit Rajamala) the kings of Tripura written in Sanskrit state thus :- But the tribal people of Tripura call these gods “Yudhisthirasya Yajnarthe Sahadevena Nirjitah.” and goddesses with the names in their own language However, this Royal Dynasty of Tripura Mwtai Kotor, Burasa, Kaleya, Garia, Katharog, recognized themselves subsequently as descendant Banirog, Thumnairog, Ikhitra, Bikhitra, Mailuma, of the Lumar Dynasty having endowed by the Hindu Khuluma, Twima, Hachukma, Sangrangma. Brahmins. It is believed that religion is commonly There are good number of temples built by the understood as a belief that has some invisible kings of Tripura in the olden days, and temples built controlling power with a related emotion and a in the remote past have been found out by excavating sense of morality. The basic features and nature of mounds in different parts of the State. Moreover, religious belief of the tribal people’s religion are there are engravings of different gods and goddesses no exception. It is true that these common features on the slopes of rocky hills. There are also stone- are present as much in the simplest beliefs and idols of gods and goddesses lying here and there made practices of the tribal people as they exist in the by unknown sculptors in the remote past. These are civilized people. all the signs of the cultural and religious heritage of Here in Tripura, a section of the tribal people the State. has two types of priests, eg. Brahmin priest and Queen Hiravati, widow of the king Tripur, had Tribal priests— Ochai or other appellations. It is founded the presently famous temple of fourteen significant that a section of the Tripuris, Jamatias, gods and goddesses and started worshiping them with Noatias, Reangs, Kolois, Uchois and others have the heartiest desire to have –a worthy son. It is said two kinds of the priests. Presently it is found that that, with the blessings of the fourteen gods and they engage Brahmin priests during the three main goddesses, she gave birth to a very handsome male events of birth, marriage and death. The remarkable child with all the auspicious marks. That male child point is that the tribal people living in the was named Trilochan (three-eyed), since an eye-like inaccessible areas of forests, hills and hill-slopes sign was visible on his forehead. have their own priest only and all religious Since then, the above mentioned fourteen gods ceremonies are performed by follows their and goddesses were being worshiped as hereditary traditional beliefs and practices.

Heritage Explorer 5 February 2021 It is to be stated here that a section of the tribal of a different order. For a man cannot become a people of Tripura has already assimilated with the Christian or Muslim merely if he claims to be one.” Hindu religious sects and worship some of the Tradition Based Practices And Systems Of Hindu gods and goddesses according their norms The Religious Rites: since long. In Tripura, according to the Census Report of 1931 onwards (during the British The Tribal people of Tripura are worshiping a period) all tribal people are described as animist. good number of gods and goddesses according to In this connection, it may be mentioned here that their indigenous faith. But there is no any written the previous Census Reports of 1891, 1911 and scripture for worshiping these gods and goddesses. 1921 had already enumerated the tribal people in For worshiping the gods and goddesses, they are the fold of Hinduism and it was not a possible following practice and systems orally inherited task to segregate Hindus Dharma from the Tribal’s from their forefathers. The mantras or incantations Dharma. In case of Tripura, Hinduism takes spelled by their Ochais or others (Priests) at the different shape where indigenous faith is deeply time of worships also are not in _written text. The influenced by the “Sanatana Dharma.” The Ochais or others acquire the incantations by Hinduism practiced by the tribal people of Tripura practice orally from their spiritual guides. Even, is a curious mix of Hinduism, because the there is no written text of the incantation for traditional tribal gods and goddesses have not been worshiping the fourteen gods and goddesses. ousted by them, and the tribal gods and goddesses Traditionally, the Chief Priest— Chantai of the are worshiped side by side with those of the Hindus fourteen gods and goddesses teach the incantation by the tribal priests— Ochais or Chantai or others. to his principal associate, — Naran alone. Obviously, all the tribal people except the Generally, the senior most Naran becomes Chantai Christians and Buddhists may be called Hindus in after an acting Chantai demised or relinquished a wider sense. Significantly, the tribal people have this religious seat. Only one complete manuscript identified themselves as Hindus and a good under the title “Surchya Pujar Khonaimani” number of them do not feel any necessity for (worship of the Sun-God) is available. There are Brahmin priest to perform religious ceremonies for forty verses containing eight lines in each verse. them in time of birth, marriage and death. Indian Some Research scholar presumed that it was culture finds no exception to this and no Hindu composed more than thousand years back, thought raises any objection to their self-identification as there is no proven document about the time of its Hindus. The observations made by renowned composition. However, it may undoubtedly be said Anthropologist Prof. N.K. Bose are applicable that the manuscript is very old. Though the here. He observed that “They have their own manuscript was composed in Kokborok language, priests, and the ceremonies are also their own. it is almost unknowable to the educated Kokborok Even if such people call themselves Hindu, no speaking people of the day. Now-a-days, some other Hindu objects, for Hinduism is spread over writers and scholar are quoting words and phrases a wide spectrum encompassing tribal beliefs at one of the incantations spelled by the Ochais in their end and the highest forms of philosophical writings, but no complete text of the incantations freedom at the other. Hindu society has moreover for worshiping the particular god or goddess is yet a built-in arrangement, the caste system, by means to be written. Therefore, it is rightly be said that of which communities can preserve their the religious activities and rituals prevalent in the distinctive identities, even when they are federated tribal society of Tripura are solely based on the in a common hierarchical system. The change that oral traditions. Now, some of the religious activities takes place under the influence of Christianity or and rituals being performed by the tribal people Islam, both religions of Semitic origin, is however of Tripura are precisely mentioned hereunder.

Heritage Explorer 6 February 2021 Indigenous Faith characteristic feature of their religion like that of It is not incorrect at the present stage to say the Tripuris, Riangs and others. that the term ‘indigenous faith” is taken in a wide The tribes of Tripura have no idol for their deities. sense to denote the belief in the existence of While performing the rites and rituals, the tribal spiritual beings. Most of the tribal people of people of Tripura erect symbols made of bamboo Tripura, viz. Tripuris, Jamatias, Reangs, Noatias, for their deities, and pebbles in case of “RANDAK” Kukis and Uchois, believe that high mountains, worship performed by Tripuris, Riangs and Others. hills, trees and bamboos are the abodes of spirits However, it is a unique feature of religious cult of and ghosts. Similar belief is found among the the Jamatia tribe that they have the face of the Hindu Halams also. The Tripuris call the soul of “Garia” god made of gold which they fit with human body “Fala”. They believe that when a man bamboos and decorate with varied colours of cloths falls asleep the soul goes out from the body at the time of festival. There is a number of temporarily and returns to the body. The belief in controversial opinions how the Jamatias had got this spirit is an important aspect of the religious life face of the “Garia” God. of Tripuris. They believe that on the “Chharua The Riangs believe in soul and its separate bufang” (a kind of tree) the spirits dwell. The existence. Like Tripuris, they also call it “Fala”. They meeting place of three-fout, paths or the road- also believe that sleep implies temporary departure crossing which they call “Lampwra” is supposed of soul “Fala” and death means permanent departure to be hunted by evil spirits. Some of them believe of the same. that very old pond is also an abode of the evil The Halams strongly believe in the existence spirits. The dominating belief is that if a particular and activities of soul in men, animals and plants. plot of land, be an abode of evil spirits, then it is In the Halam society, the soul is called ‘Ratha”. very harmful to cultivate it. Even more, some of They also believe that soul is capable of leaving the hills and big trees are indicative to them as the body while a person is asleep. They believe in the dwellings of the sprits. “Lampwra” as stated re-birth which is supposed to take place after seven above bears a social significance in the tribal days’ of death on the basis of Karma (action) in people’s belief in Tripura. The Tripuris and some the previous life. It is also believed that the soul other tribal people of the State worship “Lampwra returns home immediately after death in the form Wathop” customarily before any ceremony, rites of either a kite or a dove. and rituals. -Wathop” means symbol of deities The Garos believe that the soul after death made of bamboo. It may be called high philosophy takes a form of a ghost or insect or beast. The of the tribal people that “Lampwra” is a symbolic high spirit of the Garos is “Tatara Burunga”. The of the worldly place where human and living Kukis of Tripura are said to worship the beings meet together for the time being and leave deceased’s soul. The Kukis along with the for their respective directions after completion of Lushais believe that the good spirit is “Parthian” the worldly duties. The principal motto of the who created this universe and “Huais” are the worship is “Kubui, Kwthar, Kwkwrwk” powerful devil spirits. Both these tribal resembling the thought of the Hinduism “Satyam, communities believe that the soul of the deceased Sivam, Sundaram” (Truth, well-being, graceful). keeps prowling around his mortal abode and In case of the Jamatia tribe, primitive faith is a “Thong- chhuah” puja offered by surviving unique factor. They worship the supernatural spirits relatives can bring it repose. Otherwise a restless and forces. Although they are devoted to Hinduism, spirit can do harm to living men. but the essence of indigenous faith is one of the (Contd. to Next Issue)

Heritage Explorer 7 February 2021 Rani Gaidinliu

Ramkui Newme

Rani Gaidinliu was born on Thursday, 26th the nation in her political propaganda. She told her January 1915 in Rongmei Naga village of Lungkao followers about the agitation launched by the in the Trans-sarah basin in the western district of congress under the leadership of Gandhiji. She led Manipur state. She was the third child among eight the people politically along the teachings of Gandhiji, children of shri Lotthonang. Her family belonged to and religiously along the reformed form of traditional an influential ruling clan of the village. From faith and customs. childhood Gaidinliu was an independent and strong Her religious movement was not a complete willed girl. She was very robust and manly in departure from the traditional religion and practices. executing tasks that used to raise eyebrows of the It is known as the “HEREKA” meaning PURE. The womenfolk of the village. At the age of thirteen, HEREKA believes in God who is the creator of the she was associated with Hepou Jadonang (1905-31) universe. The idea of kingdom of God where there who tried to drive away the British from Manipur. will be no wants and sufferings is also visualized by Gaidinliu soon became trustworthy lieutenant of the Heraka. Hereka also believe life after death if Jadonang in his social, religious and political no sin is committed on the earth. movement. However, before launching his Socially, Gaidinliu’s movement aimed at the movement, Jadonang was arrested and hanged by the integration of the three Naga kindred tribes (Zemi, British on 29th August 1931 in Imphal. Jadonang Liangmei and Rongmei) known as Zeliangrong. She gave the idea and it was left to Gaidinliu to translate wanted to preserve the traditional Naga culture and it into action. customary practices. The practice of Naga customs After the execution of Jadonang, people looked is always praised in her speeches. She never parted to her for leadership and Gaidinliu assumed the with any piece of Naga customary item from her leadership of the movement for independence against body. The people believed in what she said and their the British Raj. Gaidinliu concentrated her rebellion love and reverence were so enormous that she was in the Trans-Barak basin. Her movement had socio- sort of goddess incarnate who was going to deliver religious and political aims. The British had let loose them from the life of bondage and misery. Gaidinliu a reign of terror in the Manipur hills. They imposed always denied she was a goddess. It was because of collective fines on the villages that refused to obey over enthusiasm of her followers that the British British orders. The British rule in Manipur hills was authorities and many writers following them, out of arbitrary and oppressive. They confiscated all ignorance, say that she installed herself as a goddess weapons and guns belonging to villagers to shut up which is far from the truth. any protest. Gaidinliu told her followers, “we are free After the execution of Jadonang, the whole people, the white man should not rule over us, we affected area comprising the present Manipur west will not pay any house tax to the Government, we District, Southern Nagaland and North Cacher Hills will not obey their unjust laws like forced labor and of Assam were alive with rebellion. And the British compulsory porter subscription.” The political Government was greatly alarmed at this program of Gaidinliu was inspired by Jadonang. unprecedented uprising under the leadership of a Jadonang had earlier come to know of Mahatma “surly girl” of seventeen. It was not a mob action of Gandhi, but it was Gaidinliu who pursued Father of every “crook and gangster,” as Ursula Graham Bower

Heritage Explorer 8 February 2021 (‘Naga path P- 46) thought, nor of “ruffians”, as Nagas attacked in broad day-light the Assam Rifles Stephen Fuchs (Rebellious Prophet, p. 151) writes, outpost at Hangrum. Unfortunately, they were using nor was Gaidinliu “the hub of a money spinning God Daos and spears which were no match at all for the racket” (Naga Path). It was a well organized and rifles of the defenders. The outpost opened fire which popular political rebellion. The people gave money caused seven spot death and injuries among the Naga for the cause and a large number of fighting men warriors who had to ultimately retreat. The casualties volunteered for the fight against the British were 1. Pauditrangbe Riame 2. Rangneickambe authorities of Manipur and Naga Hills. Gaidinliu was Riame 3. Lungsangying Pame 4. Zinbuing Pame 5. the only hope for their freedom. Then the British Kerujuing Pame 6. Nramraing Kuame 7. Government decided to suppress the rebellion and Namkebuing Riame. For this attack the villages of capture Gaidinliu, the hunt for whom was, in the Hangrum, Hejaichak and Guilong in N.C. Hills and words of Bower, “Apprehending the grave danger Bopunggwami in Naga Hills were burnt down. A of this rebellion, the Assam Governor in- council good numbers of her followers were also tortured. ordered that operations against Gaidinliu were to be Gaidinliu moved eastwards and reached the edge of centralized under the direct control of Mr. J.P. Mills, the Angami country. Her influence also reached the the Deputy commissioner of Naga hills, who could Maram Nagas of Mao area in northern Manipur. Even utilize the service of the men of the 2rd and 4th in Kohima, the head quarters of the Naga Hills, her Assam Rifles. The S.D.O of North Cachar Hills and sympathizers were many. The Gaidinliu WATER was an officer of Manipur state were directed to assist sold at high prices to Angami villages. Mr. J.P. Mills, him. the Deputy Commissioner who reported earlier that Troops were sent out to all three districts, the real danger of the movement is the spirits of outposts were established at strategic points in the defiance now abroad, had to act promptly to prevent centers of more active areas of Manipur and Assam. any alliance between Gaidinliu and the powerful Searches for Gaidinliu were instituted; her photos Naga villages of Khonoma which staged a great were widely distributed throughout the three uprising in 1879. Many spies of Gaidinliu were districts. All the girls having the name of Gaidinliu working at Kohima itself to check the movements were interrogated and it is said that many girls of Assam rifles. having similar names had to change their names. In October Gaidinliu moved into Polomi village Even Gaidinliu had to adopt the name of ‘Dilenliu’. and started the construction of an amazing wooden Mr. Harvey, the president of Manipur state Darbar, fortress after the pattern of the Assam Rifles palisade offered reward of Rs.200/- for the arrest of at Hangrum. Gaidinliu told her followers that the Gaidinliu; this amount was subsequently raised to next two months would be crucial period; either she Rs.500/- and any villages giving the information or the British would win. She was prepared to make about her were promised a remission of ten years the last trial of strength between the Assam rifles taxes. But every man and woman in the area was a and her army. The fortress, which was being sympathizer. Gaidinliu went into hiding in North constructed, would accommodate, when completed, Cachar Hills and Masang of Kepeilo, her agent did four thousand warriors and would be a formidable his best to keep her movement and whereabouts a one. In the meantime, Mr. Mills getting the complete secret. intelligence reports, dispatched a strong force of The Manipur Government meted out serious Assam Rifles under the command of Captain punishment to supporters of the rebellion. Several Macdonald, accompanied by Mr. Hari Blah to villages were burnt down. The sepoys of the Assam Polomi. The fortress was not yet ready and the rebels Rifles had an encounter with the rebels in North did not take any precautionary measure. Captain Cachar Hills on 16th February 1932, a large force Macdonald made a surprise attack on Polomi village

Heritage Explorer 9 February 2021 at dawn October 1932. The rebels were completely wasting her bright young womanhood in dark cells taken by surprise and could not offer any effective and solitude. Six years she had been there. What resistance. They surrendered and Gaidinliu was torment and suppression of spirit they have bought arrested from a house. On the way she was taken to her, who in the prime of her youth dared to to Kohima. Few Angami youths attacked the challenge an Empire”. British officers in favour of Gaidinliu for being She was ultimately released from Tura Jail when humiliated by the army by fettering her on her India became Independent in 1947. She was not waist. After that she was brought to Imphal for allowed to return to Manipur and had to stay at trial. Mr. Higgins, the political Agent, sentenced Yimrup village in Tuensang district of Nagaland. She her to life imprisonment. She spent fourteen years was given some pension by the Government. She in British Jail, one year at Gauhati, six years in retired from active political life for about fourteen Shillong three years in Aizawl, Mizo Hills, and four years. But the Naga troubles started in 1956. She years at Tura, Garo Hills. and her religious cult (HEREKA) was attacked and All of her followers were arrested and imprisoned. criticized by the underground Nagas who spread all However, Gaidinliu imprisonment was more popular kinds of insinuating rumors through their agents. So, than Gaidinliu at large. The movement was in 1960, her followers took her underground and she continued by other followers in subsequent years. created a private army of one thousand men with Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru learnt about Gaidinliu and 400/500 Rifles to defend her demand and religion, her movement when he visited Assam in 1937. He ensure her own security and press her demand for a was impressed by her activities and at the same time Zeliangrong Administrative area, comprising the was shocked after learning that a young girl of twenty Zeme, Liangmei and Rongmei Naga areas of should suffer so much. He described her as the Rani Manipur, Nagaland and Assam. of the Nagas. Since then the title of Rani has been After six years of hard underground life, she was popularly appended to Gaidinliu. called out by the Government from her hideout on In 1937 the congress Government tried to 16th Jan 1966 at Tening, Nagaland and she was release her but failed as Manipur was not directly brought to Kohima on 20th January 1966. Thereafter under a British rule. Pandit Nehru requested Lady she had been devoting herself for peace and Astor, the famous Lady member of the British development of her people for many years. Her parliament to take up the case of Gaidinliu. In recognition had spread nationwide. She started her letter to Pandit Nehru in May 1939, Lady Astor visiting many places outside Manipur and Assam. Her stated that the secretary of state for India had visit to Haflong via Lumding and Maibong once turned down her request to release Gaidinliu. The created a history. She was accorded a royal welcome British felt that the movement had not yet died in Lumding junction by the (Hindus) Bengalees- down, and would break out if she was released as especially the Subhash Badi Janata Group. Even two she still was considered a potent source of danger trains were delayed and the travelers vied with each to the peace of Manipur state and the province of other to have a glimpse of the great patriot. Slogans Assam. Pandit Nehru well publicized the case of in honour of Rani Ma, “Rani Mai Ki Jai, Rani mata Gaidinliu and commented; “Perhaps she thought Amar rahe” filled up entire skyline. The escorting rather prematurely that the British Empire still party received a big surprise at Maibong where a very functioned effectively and aggressively, it took big crowd- representing all communities accorded vengeance on her and her people. Many villages their revered Rani Ma an unprecedented welcome. were burnt and destroyed and this heroic girl was A healthy competition was visible among the people captured and sentenced to transportation to life. for offering “PRANAM” to the “Joan of Arc” of And now she lives in some prison in Assam India.

Heritage Explorer 10 February 2021 Rani Gaidinliu attended the second world Hindu been created by the Department and has been conference in Allahabad in the year 1979 where she presenting annually since 2001, to women who was appointed as President of Matri Sammelan. She have made outstanding contribution for the society was the vice president of All India Freedom Fighters and the nation. Association since 1986 and also the president of All Rani Gaidinliu was awarded with the Tamra Patra India Freedom Fighters Nagaland unit from 1986 till by the Prime Minister of India for her contribution her death. Rani Gaidinliu was a patron of Akhil and role as a Freedom Fighter in 1972. In recognition Bharatiya Adivasi Vikas Parishad since 1974, the of her contribution for the upliftment of the down- founder of Zeliangrong Council, Adviser to Vishva trodden and weaker section of the people, the Hindu Parishad (World Hindu Council). Government of India awarded her the Padma Bhusan In her later life she came to Assam in North in 1982. Rani Ma received Swami Vivekananda Cachar Hills and stayed a Hejaichak village for about Puraskar on 31st January 1987. two years, then one year at Hangrum village, the place In honour and memory of the departed leader, where she fought against the British forces in 1932. the Ministry of Post and Telegraphs, Government From there Rani left for Luangkao, her native village of India has released a one rupee post stamp with in Manipur and breathed her last after brief illness at the picture Rani Gaidinliu on 12th September 1996. noon on 17th February 1993 in her residence. It was The Anthropological Survey of India conferred Rani auspicious day of Shiva Ratri (Bhubon Mela) and a Gaidinliu with the award of “Birsa Munda” heavy storm started after her death. Rani Gaidinliu posthumously in 1996. A Martyr column was was given the state honor. Governor of Manipur state erected by the Assam Govt. at Hangrum village, Shri Chintamani Panigrahi was present during her N.C. Hills District on 19th February 2003 which is funeral function. Many Zeliangrong leaders were dedicated to the memory of martyrs who laid down present at the funeral ceremony. Rani Gaidinliu was their lives during Zeliangrong Revolt 1931-32 a nationalist. She was a personal friend of Pandit against British Empire. The battle of Hangrum was Jawaharlal Nehru and Mrs. Indira Gandhi. Her life is fought in March 1932 between the Freedom a good example that in an independent and Fighters under the command of Rani Gaidinliu democratic India the Nagas have a place of honour against the Assam Riffle (a British army then). Rani and respect. Gaidinliu was a freedom fighter, Patron saint of The Head office of Indian National Fellowship Hereka cult, social worker, leader of Zeliangrong Centre, Juhu, Mumbai has named this Head office people and a firm believer in indigenous tribal as Rani Gaidinliu Bhavan in honour of Rani Ma culture and Indian Nationalism. Gaidinliu and a statue of her been installed in the The exemplary life of Rani Gaidinliu, her campus of Information Technology Institute for sacrifices, her sufferings and her contribution to the Tribal’s of India (ITITI) at Dehradun, Uttarakhand. cause of freedom, independence, development and The Department of Women and Child progress prove beyond doubt that she was indeed a Development, Ministry of Human Resource person of Great Spirit, sympathy and intelligence. Development, Government of India has She can be called a true nationalist, a pioneer in nominated five Women emancipation program. many aspects, a social reformer and a freedom They are Padmabhusan Rani Gaidinliu, Lok Mata fighter. Rani Gaidinliu is widely regarded as the Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar, Jeeja Bai, mother of mother of all. So, she is called “Ranima” or Chhatrapati Shivaji, Jhansi ki Rani Lakshmi Bai “Ranipui”. Rani Gaidinliu was really a gifted lady. and Rani Kannagi of Kerala. In their memory of We are fortunate and proud for having a personality award “STREE SHAKTI PURUSHKAR” has like Rani Gaidinliu.

Heritage Explorer 11 February 2021 Tracing Roma Roots

Major Surendra Mathur

Roma sounds like people from Rome. This word and thousands of loyal mates, immolated for dignity has no familiarity in India, the country of their origin. and honour is unparallel in the world history. The word is common in Europe or other parts of the The Roma’s in “Sisodia” dynasty were not only world. In India they are called Gadulia Lohar or fighting solders but were equally skilled in making Labadi etc., depending upon their original group. armours for the army. They were the best metal They are the nomadic people, well known for workers to make swords, lances and all kinds of travelling on their bullock carts with their bag and weapons and artifacts used by the army. The Indian baggage. One can find them in any part of India swords made by them were amongst the best in the migrating from one place to another for their living. world and were much in demand from other rulers. They are mostly seen with blacksmith work, making Their skill in metallurgy attracted many and may have and sharpening knives or other metal artifacts. Of been the reasons of migrations to the other parts of late, with less demand of their local products due to the world. But the most prevalent historical evidences modernization, they are also seen with scraped or of their migration were after the defeat of their King discarded metal parts of automobiles. Most of them at Chittor. Being loyal to their King and the Kingdom have no land of their own and would prefer to lead a they took vows for dignity and decided to return only nomadic life. They go through great hardships due after the fort of Chittor was taken back from the to uncongenial climates. enemy. Those who had faster means to travel, In India most people connect Roma history with travelled fastest and farthest and others, perhaps the state of Rajasthan and especially with the made homes on bullock carts and looked for safe Kingdom of “Maharana Pratap”, of “Sisodiya” shelters. The vows were the main reason that they dynasty, who ruled “Chittor”. He fought against the travelled like nomads and were then called Gypsy. Muslim rulers to protect his kingdom. He is The territorial boundaries were of no consequence acknowledged as one of the bravest of all Hindu for them for travelling far and wide. Even today we Kings of India who not only defended his kingdom can see them in India along the roadsides in villages, but also fought bravely the foreign invaders. He is doing metal work for their earning. Knowing the the only king titled “Maharana” in India, which means historical background, they are not looked down the greatest of all Kings. The Roma’s in India were upon by the Indian society, but at the same time they amongst the bravest fighting clans called “Rajput” also avoid mixing around locally. They still celebrate and were the most loyal towards the “Sisodia” festivals and perform marriages as per their traditions. dynasty. Chittor is even today the place of inspiration My parental organisation works for the tribes in for all Indians. The fort of Chittor has been India and we are aware of the fact that the Roma’s acknowledged as the largest fort of the world and a have the ST “Scheduled Tribes” status in many states world heritage site by UNESCO. Legendary stories in India and therefore we run many welfare schemes of King “Maharana Pratap”, fighting Mughals, can for them. The government has tried to settle them even be heard in folk lores and songs. The kingdom down, to prosper and lead a happy and dignified life. that was established by king “Bappa Rawal” was most They are spread all over India. We run schools and democratically ruled and lasted longest in the Indian hostels for their children. At Sitargang in Uttrakhand history. The statue of king “Maharana Pratap” can they are called Tharu, settled along the Indo Nepal be seen in almost every town in India. The legendry boarder and the place is called “Bara Rana” and it history of Rani (Queen) Padmini, the noble women means a place of twelve knights. They must have

Heritage Explorer 12 February 2021 come and settled here. Their living style and traditions India have almost forgotten this goddess. The elder said are that of royal clans. On 15 Feb 2015, our that this goddess is our “Kul Devi” and there is a very organisation gathered Eighty thousand (80,000) ancient temple of this goddess on top of the Chittor Tharu tribes at Sitargang. This was a great event. We fort. The elder also mentioned that this temple existed run many projects for their welfare in Andhra Pradesh even before the Fort was constructed and we had always too. There they are called Labari or Banjara etc. been worshipping this goddess. Roma’s in India come from far flung places to worship this goddess but they My first interaction with the European Roma came have forgotten the ancient temple location. This created when I met a British couple and the lady was Roma. lots of curiosity in me to know more on goddess “Aae We invited them to India and took them to a village Lacha Matta”, the goddess of Roma. near Chittor, where around a hundred families of Roma are settled. The villagers made very special Having known the Elders in the Roma village, traditional dresses for them. People welcomed them they invited me as chief guest during their annual and dressed them up like a bride and a bridegroom gathering of Indian Roma’s on 6th Apr 2015. After and took them to the village temple of God “Baba the colourful social evening, big rally was organised Ramdev” and ceremonies were performed. There next day on vehicles. First of all, they took us to the was a big gathering in the village. They were served statue of Maharana Pratap located at a main city circle traditional food. The lady then confirmed with pride in the town and the leaders garlanded the statue and that her ancestors left India five generations before. then proceeded to the Chittor fort and the offering She was most excited and happy to be amongst her were made to all deities. At the foot hill was the board own people. which mentions the ten vows taken by the Roma’s. At Rana Kumbah Mahal (Palace), there is a big Couple of years later a Spanish Roma visited and courtyard. This was the main historical place for them. was keen to know their roots. I offered them to travel Firstly, they showed us an Iron piece which was more to Chittor with me and he happily accepted. At like an anvil. They offered prayers here. The leader Chittor while moving up to the main fort we could narrated the stories of these places. He said that this show him a board at the foothills on which the ten Iron peace is also our goddess. We call it goddess vows taken by the Roma’s are written. We showed “Aaeran Matta”. The word Iron has been derived from him the temples of deities worshipped by Roma’s the name of this goddess. He further explained that and offerings are made to them. The palaces, this is like an anvil and used to shape the metal pieces historical monuments, the place where the noble like swords etc. And this Iron piece does not rust. women immolated themselves for dignity attracted They worship everything that was used by their him the most. We also narrated him the stories of ancestors. Next was a small stone embedded on a bravery of their King “Maharana Pratap”. In the small platform and is also worshipped. It was used evening we were welcomed by the Roma villagers. for sharpening the weapons. In the same location was He spoke to them in the local dialect which is still a big platform and they performed ceremonies and prevalent in Spain. He spoke words like Aak (Eyes), was the place to hold “Panchayat”. We then moved Kaan (Ears), Naak (Nose), Chora (Boy), Chori (Girl), to the famous temple of “Aae Lacha Matta”. Most Tato Hai (it is hot) etc. And were understood by us of the Roma youth had not seen it before. There is a all. We, at home use the same words like, “Pani Tato dry pond in front of the famous goddess Kali temple Hai”, which means “water is hot”. The most and there lies the temple of “Aae Lacha Matta”, but important of all was when Vicente mentioned that in ruins. The temple stands and speaks of the glories they always prayed to the goddess “Aae Lacha Matta” past of the Roma’s. This was a new discovery for us in Spain. This came as a surprise to most of us. The all. village elder confirmed that their Kul Devi (Goddess of Roma) is “Aae Lacha Matta”. The village elder I Understood the discrimination and atrocities was also surprised to know that a person from Spain faced by the Roma’s in Europe. I was made to was asking about their goddess, whereas Roma’s in (Contd. to Page 23)

Heritage Explorer 13 February 2021 Death Defying Bear Hug: Major (Dr) Laishram Jyotin Singh, Ashoka Chakra (Posthumous)

Lt. Col. L Manongba

In this article, the war veteran author narrates the story of a young martyr from Manipur, who was trained twice over to save lives – One on the Hippocratic oath as a Doctor; the other as a Soldier with a formal promise and covenant for loyalty and allegiance to the country. “The vower agreed to obey all commands of the President of the Union of India and from any officer set over him, even to the peril of one’s life”.

Major Laishram Jyotin Singh’s ‘train ride with and then attend school. He loved playing football, us on Planet Earth’ began in Nambol, a small but athletics, bodybuilding and trekking. He was prosperous town astride the Tiddim Road in destined for competition right from childhood. He Manipur. This satellite township had witnessed the did his MBBS from the Regional Institute of last stand of the Japanese Army at Red Hill Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal in 1996. His love (Maibam Lokpa Ching) in the Second World War for sports made him pursue and complete a two in Manipur, before the tide turned against them. year Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Medicine Today, Nambol is home to the Symbol of from Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports Reconciliation & Peace - India Peace Museum, in 2001, under Baba Farid University of Health sponsored by the Japanese Foundation. This Sciences, Patiala. cocktail of a borough cum countryside environs To quote a friend, “He would always wear a was home to a young boy, Jyotin, son of Laishram suppressed smile which would explode into a grin Markando Singh and Laishram Ibeyaima Devi. occasionally. He was always ready to help a friend in Born on May 14th, 1972 at Nambol Awang Leikai, distress.” The desire to reach out far beyond the lovely he was blessed with two kind ladies as elder sisters meadows of his birthplace Nambol, the self imposed Dr. L. Binakumari Devi & Smt. L. Ragini Devi disciplined life that he inculcated as a young boy (Lecturer in Mathematics) & a younger brother struggling through his schooling days, brought him Professor L. Boeing Singh (Civil Engineering to the portals of Army Medical Corps (AMC). He Professor at IIT Guwahati). Children of humble was commissioned into the AMC on 15th February parents (father a State Govt Agriculture & 2003. Reminiscing about his initial days after joining Horticulture Department employee and a home the army, his colleague Lt Col (Dr.) MKK Maring maker mother) they all grew very tall in their own narrates “Four of us, Capt Ch Keishing, Capt L Jyotin worlds as very highly accomplished professionals. Singh, Capt M Athikho & self, all from Manipur & Jyotin, the third child surpassed them all. alumni of RIMS joined the AMC in the same month. ‘Ibungo’ as he was fondly called, did his schooling Fresh from medical college and with no army from Manipur Public School (MPS). He was the background in the family, we were a big humour in Placard holder of the MPS boy’s contingent during uniform. There were hiccups galore - sudden changes state Republic Day Parades at Imphal. This was a in our daily routine from civil lifestyle to military position of pride for any teenager. Ibungo was very discipline, coping with mess etiquette, etc. During conscientious and diligent; he would reach Imphal our pre-induction training in the hospital, the unit at daybreak for tuitions, rest at a friend’s place, Company Havildar Major taught us drills and

Heritage Explorer 14 February 2021 saluting. One day, the drill master gave a command asked if he was keen to go to Hyderabad for the ‘Baiye Salute’; Jyotin promptly lifted his left arm and World Military Games in Oct 2007. Maj L Jyotin saluted in style. The drill master nearly fainted!! We was advised to volunteer for such events as he had then went for Medical Officers Basic Course at the qualification and experience to deal with Officers Training School, AMC Centre & School, athletics and sports medicine. This exposure would Lucknow. widen his horizon and earn him a life time After completion of training, Jyotin was posted experience dealing with armies of the world. Major to Arunachal Pradesh in High Altitude Area with a L Jyotin Singh reached Hyderabad for the World medical unit of Border Roads Organization. We were Military Games from 14 Oct to 21 Oct 2007. There all young, handsome but clumsy men. At the end of he worked hard, especially in the anti doping cell the course, because of hard and rigorous training we of the games, to the satisfaction of all and got a all became refined gentlemen & probably better certificate of appreciation from the International Doctors. We then parted ways on postings, to meet Military Sports Council. Due to his competence and again for a brief while at Leimakhong / Silchar in previous performance at World Military Games he 2009. Little did one realise that, this was the last was again detailed to provide medical cover for one time we would meet. I pulled his legs to get married”. of the disciplines at Pune during the Delhi One of his colleagues Major (Dr.) N. Jiten Singh Commonwealth Games in October 2008. (Retd) recalls that Major Jyotin was looking after not In December 2009, Jyotin reported to Delhi to only the GREF personnel but also provided medical undergo training for the Indian Medical Mission to care to civilians and their families in that remote area Afghanistan. The night prior to departure for Kabul, of Arunachal Pradesh. The local populace was so Afghanistan, Dr. N Jiten and Jyotin met up at Delhi happy with him that one of the local elders wanted Haat, a favourite spot for North Easterners based in him to marry a girl from the village and settle down Delhi. He confided that an engagement was expected there. soon after his return from the Afghan Mission, with While serving at the Military Hospital at Agartala, a girl of his parent’s choice. He had not informed his Major Jyotin at times wore several hats as a Medical parents about going to Kabul, as they might get Officer cum Quartermaster cum Adjutant & worried. As destiny would later unfold, the two sometimes as officiating Commanding Officer of friends had their last meal together that evening. A the unit. Apart from routine hospital duties, Jyotin few days after he landed in Kabul, he sent some shared his Sports Medicine expertise with his troops. Jyotin, an excellent football and badminton player, would spend most of the evenings playing football with the Jawans of the unit or badminton with the officers of the garrison. This gave him an opportunity to interact with all ranks and he was indeed popular. The shy young lad from Nambol, Major L. Jyotin had transformed into a dedicated soldier, officer and doctor. In September 2007, Jyotin was

Heritage Explorer 15 February 2021 photographs of the snowy residential compound to his AK 47 Rifle for a ‘Deathly sweep in front of Jiten. him’. The next rooms few feet away were occupied by other Indian colleagues and officers, who too On 26th February 2010, news flashed that six were unarmed, as per the diplomatic protocol and Indian nationals had been killed in a terrorist attack agreements with the Afghanistan Government. in Kabul. The name of Major (Dr.) Laishram Jyotin Singh headed that list. Kabul at an elevation of The instinctive response of the hero would 1791 metres is pretty cold in February with average leave many dumbfounded. Probably he had no temperature normally below 0 Degrees Celsius. time for thinking about actions and reactions. It Major Laishram Jyotin Singh had commenced was sheer instinct of the Saviour, a split second looking after patients thronging the Indian Mission action driven by the desire and mental focus to Hospital as part of the Indian Medical Mission team save lives. The sportsman in the Doctor too to Kabul on 13 February 2010. On 26th February triggered the auto-motor action to react in the best at about 06.30 a.m. three Burkha clad terrorists and possible defensive manner. Major (Dr) L. Jyotin a driver tried to drive their car past the concrete Singh pounced upon the terrorist standing just a mobile barriers placed at the entrance to the Noor foot or two away from him. The terrorist dropped Guest House in Shar E Naw, an upscale place in his assault rifle on being surprised by this most Kabul where Jyotin and other Indian staff were unexpected reaction of the gallant doctor, and lodged. The neighbouring guest house had other wrestled with Jyotin. The strong physique of the international guests. When the Afghan Security sportsman in the doctor ensured the terrorist didn’t guards and private armed security personnel get the better of him. In desperation, the terrorist challenged the car, three of the terrorists alighted detonated the suicide vest that he wore. In and rushed away. The driver then detonated the car milliseconds, both the bodies were blown into and himself about 60 metres short of the entrance smithereens by the powerful RDX. Young Jyotin to the guest houses. The blast left a 12 feet wide gave the Bear Hug of Death and saved further and 6 feet deep crater. Two of the terrorists then killings and annihilation that the terrorist would entered the neighbouring guest house. The third have brought down upon the others in the adjacent terrorist (whose ‘Joridar’ had blown himself up with guest rooms. As eyewitnesses and a senior official the car bomb) rushed into the Noor Guest House. described, the abdominal parts of the martyr were All the four terrorists wore explosive laden suicide completely blown apart; it was only his serene face vests. Of the two terrorists who had rushed towards and appendages which had burn marks but no the neighbouring guest house, one of them blew severe injury was seen. He achieved martyrdom himself up with the suicide vest. Later it was in the highest traditions of the country and armed confirmed that the terrorist accompanying him had forces – That of Unsurpassable Gallantry in the escaped from the site through a blast hole in the Face of the Enemy. A Doctor, an Officer and a wall. The terrorist who entered Noor Guest House Leader of men, trained twice over to save lives – was searching every room for Indian residents. He who saved his dozen odd unarmed colleagues. What started firing and hurled grenades while looking for more could one ask from such a valiant leader. The Fateful Morning ‘Hindi Speaking’ residents / From eyewitness accounts it was also learnt that guests. This terrorist found himself standing in front these terrorists spoke “Urdu’ and not ‘Pashto or Dari’ of the door of Maj Jyotin Singh with the AK 47 which are in use as the lingua franca of the Afghans. Assault Rifle in his hand. He had probably exhausted It was believed that these terrorists were from his grenades. Maj Laishram Jyotin Singh was now Lashkar –e- Taiba who had carried out a joint standing face to face with the courier of death itself, operation with the Taliban. The mortal remains of clad in a deadly suicide vest who was about to lift late Major L. Jyotin were brought home by a special

Heritage Explorer 16 February 2021 flight of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on 28th February park in his name – ‘Jyotin Memorial Park’. On 14th 2010. The IAF aircraft landed at Imphal airport at August 2020, the Manipur State Government around 2:30 pm. Family members, relatives, friends instituted a new scheme called ‘Major Laishram and the Army Divisional Commander, Army officers Jyotin Singh, Ashoka Chakra (Posthumous) Ex and troops were at the airport to give a befitting Gratia Scheme for Natives of Manipur killed in Military Funeral to the Hero. The funeral cortege action’ while serving in the Armed Forces or wound its way to Nambol for the last rites. Late Major Assam Rifles or CPMFs. An amount of Rs 5 Lakhs Jyotin’s mother had one lament that her son never as Ex Gratia would be paid to the Next of Kin of informed her that he was going to Kabul, thinking any martyr. that they might object to his assignment and probably The youth and society needs luminaries & get him married early to change his mind from flying heroes. Here is a lionhearted knight, from amongst away. us, who has proven beyond doubt his bravery, But he had already scripted his own destiny – dedication & loyalty to the country and humanity. to return home a hero. On 26 January 2011, Late The state of Manipur, the society, the youth & Major Laishram Jyotin Singh (MR-08609) was parents alike, all must use this tale of heroism as awarded the Ashoka Chakra, posthumously, by the an inspiration for the young and capable minds. President. Professor L. Boeing Singh, the youngest There is much more that needs to be done in the sibling of the hero, received the Nation’s highest state, to salute the heroism displayed by the Doctor gallantry award from Smt. Pratibha Devisingh – Trained twice over to save Lives. He gave the Patil, the Honourable President of India on behalf monumental Bear Hug to Death itself. As a veteran of the martyr. He is the first AMC officer to be & as parents of Soldiers & Warriors of the country, awarded with this highest honour. Ashoka Chakra one wished to visit the ‘Altar of the Brave in is the peacetime Equivalent of Param Vir Chakra, Manipur’, where the least that we could do is to awarded only for the “Greatest of the Ultimate light a candle, a joss stick and lay a flower of love. Brave”. Since inception of the award in 1952, only Jai Hind. 83 individuals have been bestowed this prestigious (This article has been published in Defence related Gallantry Award. The parent organisations, AMC quarterly magazine MEDALS & RIBBONS Jan. - Mar. and the army have ensured that the sacrifice of 2021 edition.) Jyotin Singh is not forgotten. AMC Centre & College, Lucknow has honoured this bravest son (About the Author : Lt. Col. L. Manongba (Army of India by dedicating its main auditorium in his Veteran) was commissioned into 11 GR on 07 June name – ‘Major Laishram Jyotin Singh, AC, 1980, and took premature retirement in November Auditorium’. In addition, a prominent ‘Chatuska’ 2003. In his second innings he was witness to epochal at the sprawling campus of AMC Centre has been events, where he saw the birth of a new nation, i.e. named as ‘Maj L.J. Singh, AC, Chauraha’. In South Sudan. At that time he was working as General December 2016, all ranks of Military Hospital Manager of a Petroleum Company in East Africa Hissar, Haryana, contributed and installed a life (South Sudan). He was elected as an Executive size bust of the brave Doctor at a prominent Member of the 1st Commercial Association of South crossroad of the Military Hospital. In Dec 2011, Sudan (Petroleum Association of South Sudan). Leimakhong Military Garrison in Manipur Since 2016, he has been overseeing the ECHS ceremonially installed a bust of the ‘Doctor’, made Polyclinic in Imphal, and is in the forefront of ESM by Sculptor Shri L. Phonindro Singh of Nambol. activities in Manipur. He is available at e-mail ID – then Divisional Commander also commissioned a [email protected])

Heritage Explorer 17 Febtruary 2021 History of McMohan Line : Bogus Chinese Claims

Group Capt. M. Panging Pao, VM (Retd)

India & China has an acrimonious relationship of all these conflicts is the non-acceptance of over last 60 Years. The major conflict was the Sino- McMahon Line which demarcates the Indo-China India war of 1962 where Chinese forces entered al- border along Arunachal Pradesh. most 100 km inside India. The main axes of pen- The McMahon Line demarcates the eastern border etration by the Chinese forces were Tawang-Bomdila- between India and China. About 890 km in length, Rupa, Taksing-Limeking, Mechuka/Manigong-Tato, the McMahon Line followed the watershed principle Gelling-Tuting and Kibithoo-Walong Axes. There- and runs along the highest ridges of these eastern after frequent border clashes/skirmishes have oc- Himalayan ranges running from east of Bhutan to curred including at NathuLa in Sikkim in 1967 which the tri-junction of India, China and Myanmar. led to more than 150 Indians & 340 Chinese killed. The McMahon line was created during the Shimla This was followed by the tense standoff in 1987 at Agreement of 1914. The British Indian Sumdorong Chu in Arunachal and the 73 Day con- representative was Sir Henry McMahon, then frontation over Doklam in Sikkim in 2017. There Secretary in the Indian Foreign Department. The have been Chinese incursions in Asaphila, Tuting and Tibetan representative was Lama Lonchen Shatra Chaklagam areas of Arunachal Pradesh in 2017- and Chinese representative was diplomat named Ivan 2018. Chen. After almost a year of negotiations, the Recently Indo-China conflict flared up in the last McMahon line was initially presented on 22 April few onths starting with the clash at Pangong Tso lake 1914 along with an attached map. On 25 April 1914, in Ladakh on 05 May 2020 wherein many soldiers the Chinese submitted a memorandum with number on both sides were seriously injured followed by of objections to the boundaries between Inner Tibet skirmish in North Sikkim on 20 May. The skirmishes & Outer Tibet and Inner Tibet & China. There were finally led to the violent clashes at Galwan Valley no objections between Tibet & India! Thereafter on during the night of 15/16 Jun. Since there was a 27 April 1914 the Chinese representative initialled protocol of not carrying weapons, the violent clashes both the documents and the map without any witnessed soldiers attacking each other with swords, objections. However, the actual agreement iron rods, stones and sticks studded with nails. The documents were kept secret till 1937 when the violent clashes left 20 Indians soldiers killed including McMahon line was first published in a Survey of the Commanding Officer. In fierce reprisal attacks India Map. In the western sector the border in the by Indian soldiers, 40 plus Chinese soldiers were also Ladakh and Aksai Chin area was laid by the killed. It is reported that many soldiers from both Macartney-MacDonald line. sides crashed into the Galwan river in the deep ravine. Tense situation exists all along the Indo-China If the Chinese representative had no objections border. to the border between Tibet & India and have Chinese still claim Arunachal Pradesh as initialled the documents & map during Shimla ‘Southern Tibet’, issues stapled visas to Arunachal agreement of 1914, why are the Chinese still claiming citizens and uses maps depicting Arunachal as part Arunachal as ‘Southern Tibet’? This claim is bogus, of China. They object to visits by senior Indian hegemonic and not supported by documents & facts. officials, Ministers to Arunachal and uses rivers It is a known fact that people of Arunachal originating in China to arm twist India. The source Pradesh comprising of many tribes are culturally,

Heritage Explorer 18 February 2021 traditionally, linguistically different from Chinese. must run a campaign to rebut the Chinese claims The Chinese are unitarily claiming Arunachal Pradesh amongst major nations of the world. The other way without taking the opinion of Arunachali citizens! to counter the bogus Chinese claims over Arunachal Arunachalese are proud Indians and do not want to Pradesh is by putting up prominent voices from be part of China! Arunachal itself among the major world & national Considering all these historical facts, Indian govt media. Time to call the Chinese bluster!!

Netaji’s birth anniversary celebrated at Chesezu Village of Nagaland

For the first time, the village of Chesezu under was one of the strongest villages and 27 villages were Phek district of Nagaland commemorated the birth under it. He said that these 27 villages paid tax to anniversary of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose on Chesezu village every year and required permission Saturday. It is claimed that Netaji camped here for to sow seeds for cultivation. “The village was almost two months during April-May during World economically and politically stable at that time. So, War-II in 1944. Altogether 43 locals attended a small that may be one reason why Netaji chose to come to ceremony held in the village. Vesezo Ringa, a member the village,” he said. of the ‘Committee on Netaji Heritage’ informed that According to Ringa, it is also believed that Netaji’s the ceremony recollected the legacy of Netaji and clarion call ‘Delhi challo’ last camp was in the village. his visit to the village. He further added that he chose a thick bamboo grove While a drawing competition for all ages on the at the village to camp as the site was not visible from theme ‘Netaji in Chesezu’ was conducted, above. A pond where Netaji fetched water during nonagenarian Vezo Swuro, who was associated with his stay in Chesezu is preserved as a historical site. Netaji during his stay in the village, shared the Vezo Swuro, 93, is the only surviving associate historical accounts when Netaji camped in the village. of Netaji from the village related his personal According to Ringa, many reasons prove why Netaji accounts with Netaji. Rapra Swuro and Theyeveyi might have stayed back in the village. Ringa added Nyekha presented a folk song telling the story of that as per the oral accounts, Netaji reached the Netaji and the Japanese at Chesezu. village through the route from Manipur—Jessami — Phek —Thuvopisu—Runguzu—Chesezu. He said Another song which told the story of Netaji and that villagers have Netaji riding a horse. “As per their his legacy at Chesezu was sung by Nuvetalu Nyekha description, Netaji had a red belt, a pistol, and a and Nukhrutalu Nyekha during the ceremony. On grenade,” he said. Ringa added that Netaji is believed the occasion, Muleyi Khesoh, former chairman of to have entered the village through the mule tracks. the Chesezu Village Council acknowledged the India Tourism for choosing the village to observe the 125th He also said that as the village is at a higher birth anniversary of Netaji. He also urged the altitude — even higher than Kohima — it is believed younger generation to carry forward the legacies and that Netaji visited a viewpoint (watchtower) in the history of Netaji. Kejaroko Pieru, a tour operator by village to monitor the battle that took place in profession and proprietor of Pier Tours, in his address Kohima. “Vezo Swuro used Netaji’s binoculars, but to the locals expressed that Chesezu village has the it seems it was a blurry vision as he did not know potential of becoming an eco-tourism destination and how to use it,” Ringa said about the nonagenarian. further expressed his willingness to support the village He goes on to say that at the time, Chesezu village in the years to come.

Heritage Explorer 19 February 2021 Transformed for self-protection (Birth anniversary of Guru Govind Singh - 20th January)

E. Rajesh Pathak

Historical accounts of transformation of Sikhism Aurangzeb to change his strategy. He issued order to as a life philosophy is instructive, and an extremely the Commanders of Sarhind, Lahore and Jammu to eye-opening ever more. Initially who drew towards jointly launch attack on Guru Govind Singh. Sikhism of Guru Nanakdev by instinct they were Consequently war broke out first at Anandpur, and peace-loving, and religiously devotional. But latter then at Chamkore. Foreboding the ferocity of war the way with heart rending cruelty first Guru Guru Govind Singh sent his mother and his sons, Arjundev was killed by Jahangir and then Guru eight years old Joravar Singh and five years old Fateh Tegbahadur by Aurangzeb the course of Sikhism Singh, with his trusted servant to his native village . changed. This was no longer untenable for Sikhs to Here in famous battle of Chamkore with Guru have learnt that bhajans[devotional songs], keertan Govind Singh were 40 dedicated fighters led by the [prayers] and fast may bring spiritual peace to mind; rest of his two sons , Ajit singh and Jujhaar Singh, but as far as security of community is concerned that to face 700 Mughal soldiers. In the fierce battle lasted can’t be achieved without arousing the spirit of only for one day both the brave sons martyred. With organisation, fearlessness and martialism among the remaining fistful soldiers Guru Govind Singh receded people. And to fulfil that aim the ‘Khalsa-pantha’ from here to take refuge in Khidrana. On the other came into existence, founder of which was none side the servant despatched for the native village other than Guru Govind Singh. First five who came turned traitor, and handed over his sons [Joravar and forward to fulfil the resolutions of Khalsa were Fateh Singh] to the Commander of Sarhind, Vazir venerably known as ‘Panj-pyare’. One among them Khan. He called the meeting of Kaazis and Ulemaas, was from Dhobi-community; second, Bhisti; in which order was issued to both sons to either, adopt third,Darji; fourth,khatri; fifth from Jat community. Islam or embrace death. Sons preferred death to As also three among them were from Beedar, leaving their Dharma, consequently they were buried Dwarkapuri and Jaggannathpuri; and other two from alive in the wall. Punjab. Having been initiated in Khalsa it was Latter one more battle was fought with Mughals mandatory to keep kesh[long hair], kataar[dagger] in Khidrana, in which Guru Govind Singh emerged and kangi[comb] ; and wearing kachha[small-piece victorious. Meantime Auranzeb died, and there broke of loin-cloth] and kada[bracelet], which are popularly out fighting among his sons to grab power. Guru known as five ‘kakaar’’. Govind Singh supported eldest son, Bahadurshah , It was the time when people were subject to bear and even killed his brother Azam Khan in one of insult and atrocities in the hands of Mughals on the the battles. As Bhadurshah elevated to the post of basis of religion. Guru Govind Singh resolved to Moghal king peace prevailed in Punjab. However to change the prevailing estate of affair. Then what- recover from the setbacks received from the hands there began a sequel of battle after battle against of Rajputs in North-west and in South from Mughal commanders, and against those kings who Marathas, Bahadurshah sought the help from Guru were indulged in appeasing Mughals in order to Govind Singh. But he refused to respond anyhow save their respective territories. He the proposal, probably taking it as the betrayal against successfully won First, Second and Third battle of those fighting for the common cause. Then what, Anandpur and that of Nirmohgarh prominently. treading on the path shown by his shrewd ancestors, Increasing influence of Guru Govind Singh forced Bahadurshah, hatching conspiracy, put his two men

Heritage Explorer 20 February 2021 behind Guru Govind Singh, who first won Guru’s army of Mahahraja led by Harisingh Nalwa even confidence and then slayed him. entered deep inside Afghanistan up to Kabul and earned the glory of bringing back after centuries the Martyrdom of Guru Govind Singh went not in jewel studded Gate of Somnath temple back to India vain. Following the path shown by him, his and establishing it to its original place. Likewise descendent, great Maharaja Ranjit Singh later fulfilled Harimandir sahab gurudwara of Amritsar that was his dream. Though Marathas liberated Punjab in once burnt down by Ahmad Shah Abdali was 1755-56 from Mughals but credit for strengthening renovated and as well as embedded with the gold, of Indian sovereignty in the region actually goes to giving it the form of ‘Swarna Mandir’. Cow-slaughter subsequent Sikh rule there. Not only this,breaking also was prohibited in the reign of Maharaja Ranjit the dominance of truculent foreigners, invading Singh.

Tripura’s Tripurasundari Temple’ sanctioned Rs 37.8 Cr. for development

Under the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Development Corporation Limited (TTDCL) Spirituality Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme would implement the project in a time-bound of the ministry of tourism, the Centre sanctioned of manner and the state government has undertaken Rs 37.8 crores for the ‘Development of Mata several initiatives for face lifting of tourism in Tripurasundari Temple’ in Tripura. Tripura. The Tripura CM who is in New Delhi at Tripura CM Biplab Kumar Deb taking to his present also met Union textiles minister Smriti Twitter handle wrote, “On behalf of the 37 lakh Irani. Irani assured Deb of providing full support people of #Tripura, express deepest gratitude to PM from the centre for developing handloom clusters Shri @narendramodi ji & Tourism Minister, in Tripura. @prahladspatel ji for ensuring the sanction of Rs Tripurasundari temple located on a hill-top 5 KM 37.8 crores for the ‘Development of Mata from the main town at Udaipur. Maharaja Dhanya Tripurasundari Temple under PRASAD scheme’ at Manikya constructed the temple in 1501 A.D. Udaipur.” Tripurasundari temple occupies a place of distinction Under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of among all the Hindu religious shrines as it earns India launched the PRASAD Scheme in the year special veneration on account of being one of 51 2014-2015. The full form of PRASAD Scheme is Peethas of Hindu Centre of worship and submission. Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spirituality Goddess Tripurasundari is an avatar of the Augmentation Drive. Like the PRASAD Scheme, Goddess Parvathi, the consort of Lord Shiva. The there are various other schemes launched by the temple consists of square-shaped sanctum designed Government of India in order to address the social in the model of typical rural Bengal hut. and economic welfare of the citizens and the nation. The placid lake Kalyansagar situated in backside Tourism secretary Kiran Gitte said that the ministry of the temple has added an aura to the total environ had accorded sanction for development of temples of the temple complex. The lake is home to tortoises following the DPR of the state government under that are deeply revered by the devotees of the temple. PRASAD scheme. This venerable temple is also referred to as the Meanwhile, a total of 33 works will be carried Koorma (tortoise) Pith. It is a popular religious shrine out under the project to develop the temple which where thousands of devotees across the country will further boost tourism in the state, Gitte added. assemble to celebrate Diwali Festival with great The secretary further stated that Tourism pomp.

Heritage Explorer 21 February 2021 The Rituals of Tingkao Ragwang Chapriak (TRC)

Chaoba Kamson

In the event of sudden or prolonged ailment or 2. Ritual performed in the worship of Tingkao regular or annual ritual worship, the devotees of TRC Ragwang and other gods and goddess pray and seek the blessings of Tingkao Ragwang, (i) Calling of soul (Bukaomei) the Supreme God and other lower realm gods for (ii) Calling of paddy (Napkaomei) early recovery from illness through the performance (iii) Calling of wealth (Lankaomei) of rituals as per belief. In order to execute these (iv) Worship for protection of soul and body rituals, the role of a priest in TRC religion is very (Punkanmei) important to play as he negotiates with gods on (v) Worship of Tingkao Ragwang with a cock behalf of the worshipper. The purpose of every ritual (Tingkao Ragwangjang Lamei) is for prosperity, welfare, success, longevity of life, (vi) Worship of Tingkao Ragwang without good luck, grant of child etc. sacrifice (Ragaizou Jangmei) The great priests who are known as Tingkao (vii) Worship of all gods of TRC pantheons (Raren Ragwang Mucharakhandinmujungpu are Loumei) (i) Tingpurengsonnang (ii) Tenglam (iii) Ting- (viii) Calling of soul from the land of the dead ngalapu (iv) Tingcheiren (v) Ramngampou (vi) Hao (Taroi Jaimei) Sakipu etc. (ix) Ancestors worship (Kairao Kalummei) 1. Rituals performed in the rites of passage (x) Erection for village pillar gate (Rangteng Khunmei) (i) First ritual to a still born child to propitiate the (xi) Digging of village pond (Duikhun Khumei) evil spirits (Penbam Reimei) (xii) Entertainment of goddess of foodgrain (ii) Birth Ceremony (Najum Gaimei) to Dampapu (Ginkimei) and Dampapui (xiii) Erection of Tripod (Laibu Sommei) (iii) Propitiation to the evil spirits (Duikhun (xiv) Erection of main pillar of dwelling house Laman) (Kairaoteng Sommei) (iv) Ritual for avoidance of mud eating by child (xv) Ritual for erection of jumping ground of (Pung Hunmei) stepping stone (Daanpan Sommei) (v) Ritual for prevention of diarrhoea (Dampa (xvi) Ritual of Coronation (Bamsonmei) Khonmei) (xvii) Ritual on formal accommodation in (vi) Ritual for quick growth of child (Ganrao traditional Institution (Thian Thammei) Rarei) (vii) Ritual for prevention of early sexual lust 3. Ritual of Sanctification (Purumkhang Purumlu Rarei) (i) Ritual for curing of sister’s curse (Luchuk) (viii) Holy Marriage Ceremony (Laangdai Mhailak) (ii) Ritual for curing of misdeeds and exaggretion (ix) Marriage Ceremony of elopement (Noujai (Chalungchuk) Mhailak) (iii) Ritual for clear sight (Mongchuk) (x) Reconciliatory ritual of marriage (Dui Luiduk (iv) Ritual for reconciliation after killing (Richuk) Loukeimei) (v) Ritual for curing of ill-talk (Mundai) (xi) Ritual after marriage (Noukao Mithaopuitang (vi) Ritual for sanctification of cursed words Rarei) (Chakemun Danmei) (xii) Ritual of bridal price of marriage (Nouman (vii) Ritual for recovery of paralysis (Ragwang Mhailak) Kangdanmei)

Heritage Explorer 22 February 2021 (viii) Ritual for prevention of witchcraft (Daan non-performer of Raren Doumei ritual but becomes Kalanmei) a priest. (ix) Ritual for last chance to save to patient (iii) Pubu Daansaanmei – means priest who (Ragwang Pumlin) cures diseases through medicines or Mantra etc. For (x) Ritual for non-recurrence of earthquake example a man suffers from stomach pains which (Bangla Kalanmei) can be cured and relieved by drinking water in which (xi) Ritual for eradication of jealousy (Ra the priest chants mantra or magic hymns. Besides, Kangdanmei) other treatment of lunacy, stone-case, diabetese, (xii) Ritual for non-reccurence of burning of fire biting of rabies, snakes etc. can also be cured by (Mhaimik Danmei) applying the traditional heating methods. (xiii) Ritual of watering (Duigan Chaakmei) (iv) Mangtatmei – (Dream Diviner) whenever (xiv) Ritual of redemption of sin for murder anybody has a frightful or evil dream, he approaches (Rimanjan Tumei) to a dream diviner how to overcome his bed dreams. From time immemorial, TRC followers firmly The dream diviner will advise the victim to perform believe in the concept of priesthood. There are four a suitable ritual for his redressing. So, the priest plays types of priesthood. They are as follows: a great role in TRC religion. Without priest, the TRC (i) Mujungpu – means official priest who religion is not perfect. However, in the case of self performs Raren Loumei ritual which means worship worship and meditation, there is no role for a priest. of all gods and deities. They are believed and (The author is the General Secretary Tingkao worshipped. Ragwang Chapriak Phom Assam, Manipur and (ii) Raitu Muh – means unofficial priest who is Nagaland)

(Contd. from Page 13) Tracing Roma Roots

understand that they were forcibly grounded in parties in European Union, whose political stand Europe after a ban on use of bullocks by them. on Roma’s deciding their fate. They were also barred from metal work and It is evident from the above facts that their roots therefore crisis was created. They were landless lie mainly in Rajasthan. Their spoken dialect is similar and were left with no means to earn a living. The to Rajasthan and the temple of their goddess “Aae people, who loved to live with dignity, were forced Lacha Matta”, still stands high on top of the famous to adopt unfair means for survival. They were in a fort of Chittorgarh and the goddess is worshipped drone trap. They live in groups in isolated areas by the Roma’s of Spain too. The word Iran has been and fight for survival. A message of hatred for derived from the name of Roma goddess “Aaeran them is in rise due to bad publicity. People do not Matta”. want to socialize with them and always look down upon them. Many European countries do not allow Roma’s have made great sacrifice for their King them to even enter, whereas they are the legal and Kingdom and were the most loyal soldiers. All residents and citizens of European Union. While Indians are very proud of them and are concerned travelling through Transylvania we saw many Roma of their state in other countries, especially in the women begging. They live in pathetic state. We European Union. It is time that we restore back their also met Roma youth in Budapest and also pride and honour, for the sacrifices they made for attended a meeting organised by the H.E. The India. Let us all extend a helping hand to them to Indian Ambassador at Budapest, to understand the lead a dignified life and for the brighter future of situation of Roma’s in Europe. There are political their children.

Heritage Explorer 23 February 2021 Books, book fair and post-covid era

Dr Ranga Ranjan Das

This particular endeavour will briefly focus on the learnt from such a pandemic. There are various forms contemporary situation assuming post-covid era, of narratives that our ancestors told. Diseases, gross significance of books in spite digitalization and diagnosis and treatment are inter-related. With the globalization where new generation prefers e-books advances of molecular sciences, virology and micro- than printed version as well as narratives related to a biological science, organic chemistry, advanced bio- recently held book fair in Guwahati city. medical research, scientists across the globe quickly developed new vaccine to get rid of fatel diseases. The situation is yet to normal. But we pretend to Same situation is also found in the race of developing be normal. Time is yet to come to refer as post covid covid vaccine across the world. Our country is also era as still people are getting affected in numbers among the forerunners. Development of vaccine is and there are still active cases across the world. It is almost complete. Perhaps trial process is also easily noticed if someone goes to the figures brought accomplished. Steps have been taken for vaccination forth by worldometer. The beginning of the first week among the country men where the front line workers, of January 2021, reveals 1 crore 40 lakhs so far medical professionals, and health workers are infected in India as compared to 8 crore 78 lakhs in supposed to provide priority. There are three crore global context, making India 2nd highest infected such workers. It should be wonderful gesture and country after United States of America. During that acknowledgement for their untiring efforts. It is their period 1.50 lakhs people died in India while world efforts that minimize the numbers of causality in death toll touching approximately 19 lakhs. There terms of death. During middle of January, was also report of new mutant variation of corona government purchased 1.10 crore vaccine in the first in Great Britain resulting complete lockdown. In phase from Serum Institute of India. Our country Indian context, there are some cases. But, country is has huge populace. The process of vaccination seems trying to move on and broke the shackles of confined to be complicated. However, government of India life to mitigate adverse effect of gross domestic is trying to make it as simple as it can in the context product (GDP) that showed negative inclination. of the country. Discussion and road map has been Under such circumstances, it is more important to shorted out with different stake holders. In this regard assign as post-lockdown era than the post-covid era. the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce Our PM and telephone ringtone, still providing the and Industry (FICCI) prepared a detailed strategy message: ‘we should not be relaxed. Our health paper recently (during December 2020) pointing out directives, using mask, proper sanitization and mode synergy between public and private partnership. The of social distancing should be maintained’. Whatever, paper entitled ‘Protecting India-Public-Private it is observed in the context of my city in Assam, it partnership for vaccinating against Covid-19’ focuses is completely opposite. People turn out as we have on the role and need of support of private sector reached into a post-covid era. Apart from a few including healthcare for effective execution of people started appearing without mask and showed vaccination drive. It was submitted to the National tendency of complete freedom. Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for covid It is our human nature we like to live in the present 19 (NEGVAC). The paper pointed out that country and not worry about future until there are urgent need 1.3-1.4 lakh vaccination centres, 1 lakh external influences. What are the lessons we have healthcare professionals and 2.0 lakh support staff

Heritage Explorer 24 February 2021 or volunteers to support government’s mass screen in the cell phone. Self-confinement during inoculation programme. Hope, the government’s lockdown period, people redeveloped the reading good will for it’s countrymen become a reality and habits if it is a printed newspaper or a book. Various drove away the virus from the territory, soil and air scholars across the world reveal that ‘we should be of the country. On 16th of January, it has already worry about the future of book, it will remain started. It produced good result so far. unaffected as long as mankind survives’. They believe that technology may change the way of reading habit. Common masses are also aware of the present I remember a reply by a celebrated writer in a literary situation and try to settle in a normal life. The cases meet, held in the premises of book fair, (Rita of infection and deaths goes down, people senses a Choudhury and Anurahda Sarmah Pujari was there). new life in the open air. It is observed in a recently One of them said, (adjectly), I could not remember, concluded Guwahati Book Fair, held from 30th “yes with the technology, our way of reading may December, 2020 to 10th January 2021, under the change. As we are too busy in our life and unable to aegis of Axom Prakaxan Parixad. Books, book fair, make time to read a book, we may say ‘alexa’, read authors or writers, organizers, readers, onlookers are the book for me. We will lie in the bed taking rest. part of a civilized society. Books are considered as a Somebody is reading. We accomplished reading by mirror of society. The advancement, development, listening”. Books will be there and it will also be progress of society is reflected in the books depicting published in print and digital form, human being contemporary society, culture, literature, science and never quit reading habits. Some people rightly technology. Lets’ have a basic understanding of the observes, ‘books are the true friend, it never misguide term ‘fair’. Definition and concept of fair has and misleads (exception)’. I purchased some books universal acceptability as it provides opportunity for for my official library and personal interest. I have mental retreatment. We are living in the midst of the gone through some of the pages of a fiction-novel knowledge economy where one’s knowledge and Ariwa written by young but extremely talented author intellect has special significance. The architect of Anuradha Dutta. It is really a well-crafted novel based progress of human civilization is reflected in the on imagination explicitly expressed on high literary books. With the advent of digital platform, brought standards. Last year it was published by Annk Bank, forth by globalization and technological a publishing house from Guwahati. Being a advancement, raise a serious question about the postgraduate in Business Administration, the thought future of published book. It is argued that the present process of the representatives of new generation like generation has developed the habit of reading books Ms Dutta brings lots of positivity in vernacular in digital platform irrespective of time and space. literature in one sense or the other. New generations Deliberations and discussions on the future of print also have lots of emphasis in creative literature. One media and published book are held in various of the promising and very budding authors that I came platforms. The visits on book fairs, quantum of new across in recent times is Srinjana Sarma. She writes released books, readers’ interest and markets provide short stories. One cannot imagine and correlates her phrase lease of life pertaining to the future of books. writings and age. At present she is in her higher The lockdown period asserted reading habits of secondary level in a city based school. In her opinion, published book come back to the track. Among the ‘new generation writers need freedom for creativity masses, we can categorized two sections of people: and cannot confine to watertight compartment. one who is professionally compel to read book; two Writer has the capacity to build a society and also who by hobby and interest read books. With the rebuilding, in case of conflict situation with the advents of smart phone with internet connectivity society; society should not only support writers but people hardly had time to read books and newspaper also provide freedom, results positive impacts’. either. Need is mitigated by a gentle touch of the Present generation need more freedom in terms of

Heritage Explorer 25 February 2021 expression. Turning back to book fair, my assigned under the aegis of Axom Prakaxon Parixad professional interest pushed to fetch books on the to bring out a 954 pages volume entitled Hiren tribes like Thengal Kacharis, Hills and Plain Tiwas, Bhattacharya Rosonabali exclusively dealt with the Marriage Customs of Tripura tribe, Law and Society- poems, songs, penned by Hiruda over the years. Hiru the Indian stories, etc. In the fair various books are da’s notable work include Xugandhi Pakhila, Roudra released and appreciated such as Life of a driver- Kamana, Kabitar roud, Tumar bahi, Vinna dinar Cabinor Epare, Rita Choudhury’s Morey Asom Jiye Kabita, Mur dexh mur premor kabita, etc……and Kon, Aailoi Chithi, etc. New released include: Nayan popular poems like Kabi moi nasilu kunukale (Never Jyoti Bhattacharya’s Buranji Likha Taruwal, Ambika been a poet), Barthatar andhare muk mathu Dutta’s Bibah padhati aru biya nam, Ananta Kumar (Darkness of failure), Satyak xahaje loboli xikale’ Sarma’s, Jug avatar Debdumodar, and translated (Truth is accepted easily). Truly Hiruda remains in book of Deepa Bezbarua’s Klara aru alekjender the heart of the people of Assam. dristire nari mukti. It is pertinent to mention here The fair not only epitomizes the books, but it also that on first January there was a literary meet on raises various issues through various stalls. While in ‘Sahityar prasar aru praxarot anubador vumika’ (Role one stall, it takes back to our childhood, the different of translation in dissemination of literature). In the indigenous games enjoyed by many, at the same time world literature, translation plays an important role. it also reveal the sentiment over Tibet. In a temporary Much literary exercise is accomplished in different stand, there is an arrangement depicting ‘Free Tibet- foreign and other Indian regional languages. It is Voice from Assam’ where different photos of Tibet, important to study that creativity in order to maintain Dalai Lamas and exhibited books like Ladakhot parallel growth and development. Books of different param pabitra Dalai Lama pradatta prabachanar genres of literature is released during the event: Rumi xangkalan, Punaytma Dalai Lamar atma jibani - Mur Saikia’s Uttar purbanchal aru eyat baxabax kara desh aru mur manuh, Punaytma Dalai Lama Dharmar janajatixamuh (tribes of north east), Mamoni Das ‘h urdhat, Dalai Lamar xandhanot, etc books. to o r pisorkhini’ (poem), Namrata Datta’s The book fair virtually announces a pre-covid compilation Mur priya deshbaxi’ (man ki baat), PM era through its’ various literary meet, poet meet, Modi’s; Letters to Mother, like a diary, translated by interactive sessions and discussions. The huge Utpal Datta as Ailoi sithi (stated earlier), Mrinal number of new publications in Assamese testifies Kumar Bora’s Commerce point, Rupam Datta’s Life the bright future of the Assamese language and of a driver (supra), Ranjit Patgiri’s Priya Barna literature. The post covid issue is raised in various (Poem), Induma Saikia’s Akuki sishu galpa, platforms while discussing film and book industry. Dhirumoni Gogoi’s Nixidha yodha-the untold story, The show must go on-How we prepare in spite of Rubi Kataki’s Andolon, Sashank Krishnatriyao’s threat of Covid’, -impact of covid in film industry Sukhar Annexon, Binata Rabha’s Oi jhel mach specially the Assamese films as well as ‘Uttar covid mariba jangso, Bijit Talukdar’s Kukuha deuka kalot granta uddyog: challenges (pratyhaban) and (Poem), Urmilla Pathak’s Prabandha Malika aru possibilities ( xambavana). Regarding book, it is Gunjaran, are a few among others. Some earlier revealed that quality books came during lockdown published works are also accepted by new generation period, that we can take as positive. Another positive readers. A well read novel Aximat Jar Heral Seema, impact is that book available in Amazon and is one of them apart from collection of poems of Snapdeal also. The importance of published work Hiren Bhattacharya. Late Bhattacharya popularly never diminished rather it will increase as times move known as Hiruda, a well known Assamese poet left on. Hope, we will all get vaccine in the days to come. us eight years back. But his presence in every book Besides, we also hope post-covid era will bring more fair is felt by many in the form of his creature. smiles among the publication houses, authors and Bipuljyoti Saikia, nicely accomplished the task readers.

Heritage Explorer 26 February 2021