Tamenglong: April 1,2024.
In a poignant tribute to the rich cultural heritage and historic significance of the Zeliangrong community, a memorial stone was erected on April 1, 2024, at Magulong village, Manipur. Organized by the All Zeliangrong Students Union Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland (AZSU-AMN) in conjunction with the 3rd Dimki Session for the tenure 2022-2025, the ceremony honored the memory of Lt. Tadangbe, who served as the presiding priest during the cleansing rite of Nsuktoibe on Easter Sunday in 1934.
The Nsuktoibe ceremony, also known as Chukthoibo or Chuksoihmei, holds profound significance in Zeliangrong tradition as a traditional purification rite aimed at resolving inter-village feuds. The historic event, held on April 1, 1934, witnessed the participation of 1800 individuals from various Zeliangrong areas.
Lt. Tadangbe Newme of Magulong played a pivotal role as the presiding priest during the sacred ceremony, alongside associate priests from neighboring villages. The ceremony, marked by the sacrifice of a pure-blackish dog and a cat, served as a solemn declaration of the unbreakable bond of Zeliangrong brotherhood.
The erection of the memorial stone not only pays homage to the memory of Lt. Tadangbe but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Nsuktoibe ceremony in promoting unity, forgiveness, and reconciliation among the Zeliangrong people.
The historic ceremony of Nsuktoibe in 1934, facilitated by the efforts of SDO CS Booth, underscored the importance of utilizing official resources to foster peace and harmony within the community. His instrumental role in bringing together representatives from various villages contributed significantly to the resolution of long-standing inter-village feuds, marking a pivotal moment in Zeliangrong history.
As the memorial stone stands as a symbol of remembrance and reverence, it serves as a reminder of the values of unity, forgiveness, and brotherhood that continue to resonate within the Zeliangrong community.
