Maram Khullen, April 11: The Northern Maram of Manipur and the Southern Angami of Nagaland commemorated the centenary of their historic brotherhood at Maram Khullen Village, Manipur on Saturday, with leaders calling for stronger Naga unity and urging other communities to emulate the century-old bond.
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| Leaders and community members from the Northern Maram of Manipur and Southern Angami of Nagaland gather at Maram Khullen village to commemorate 100 years of their historic brotherhood pact first forged in 1926.(TNP) |
The celebration was organised by a Joint Committee under the aegis of the Northern Maram’s Peoples Organisation (NMPO) and the Southern Angami Public Organisation (SAPO). The event brought together leaders and community members from both sides to honour the historic pact first forged in 1926 at Viswema Village.
Addressing the gathering, Angami Public Organization (APO) President Thejao Vihienuo said most Nagas long for unity and closer ties among communities. He expressed concern over growing fragmentation in Naga society, noting that divisions often arise when leaders choose pride and anger over understanding and patience. He urged people to uphold the spirit of brotherhood established by their ancestors and use it as a model for wider unity among Naga communities.
Maram Union President P Timothy Raichuba highlighted that the 1926 agreement was an indigenous accord based on mutual respect, alliance and peaceful coexistence. He recalled that elders from both tribes had pledged to stand by each other for safety, protection and the welfare of their people, declaring the bond to last indefinitely according to Naga customs.
Raichuba also called for the historic brotherhood to be formally embraced by the entire Maram and Angami tribes, renewing their collective commitment to unity and cooperation so the bond continues to guide their communities for another century.
The programme featured greetings from NMPO President P Karaiba Francis and SAPO President Er Tepul Hopovi, a welcome address by Dr Ng Peter, Convenor of JCCCB, and traditional blessings led by K Namba, Chief of Maram, and Yose Chaya, a Viswema elder. The opening prayer was offered by Rev Zapovil Sophie, Senior Pastor of Jakhama Baptist Church.
Highlights of the event included the unveiling of a centenary monolith and traditional cultural presentations by both the Southern Angami and Northern Maram communities, marking a historic milestone in their enduring bond of friendship and unity.
