Aizawl, July 18: In a significant cultural milestone, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has officially declared the ancient menhirs of Lianpui village in Champhai district, Mizoram, a monument of national importance. The notification, issued by the Ministry of Culture on July 14, designates Lianpui as the second megalithic site in the state to receive this recognition, following Vangchhia’s famed ‘Kawtchhuah Ropui’.
Located approximately 54 km southeast of Champhai town near the India-Myanmar border, Lianpui village is home to 114 elaborately carved upright stones locally known as Lungphun Ropui. These megalithic structures, alongside anthropic holes, petroglyphs, Y-shaped wooden posts, and ancient pathways, reflect the spiritual and social customs of the Mizo people prior to the advent of Christianity.
Officials report that the largest of the stones measures 1.87 metres in height and 1.37 metres in width. The menhirs are uniquely arranged in eight alignments — four along the north-south axis and four along the east-west — and feature carvings of human figures, animals, birds, mithun heads, lizards, and traditional objects like gongs, showcasing the artistic heritage of the region.
Believed to have been established in the 18th century by Lusei chief Lianpuia, Lianpui village holds both historical and cultural significance. The process for national recognition began in February 2021 with a preliminary gazette notification under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. After comprehensive inspections and no public objections, the site was officially granted protected status this July.
ASI Director (Monuments) A.M.V. Subramanyam visited the site on July 7 to oversee final preparations. The announcement has been met with enthusiastic support from locals. Villagers expressed their gratitude to Mizoram’s Art and Culture Minister C. Lalsawivunga and Rajya Sabha MP K. Vanlalvena for championing the cause. Carol VLMS Dawngkimi, Director of the Art and Culture Department, commended the efforts of all stakeholders, including P. Rohmingthanga, former convener of INTACH Mizoram, for their dedication to preserving the site.
