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MOKOKCHUNG — A monument called ‘Sungratsu Keyi Meta,’ a platform for slain tigers, in Sungratsu village was inaugurated on September 12.
The monument stands as a tribute to Sungratsu's cultural heritage, symbolising the village's strength, unity and determination to protect their land. The platform for slain tigers commemorates the village's historical tradition of slaying tigers in retribution for attacks on their domestic animals.
For the people of Sungratsu, killing tigers was a feat of courage; a symbol of bravery, prestige and masculinity during the days of yore.
The monument was inaugurated by Kiehungle, wife of the late Dr. Imtiwapang Aier, former Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, and dedicated by I Kilen Longchar, pastor of Sungratsu Baptist Arogo.
The chairman of Sungratsu village council, M Taka Longchar, recounted that while no villager was ever killed by tigers, they preyed on livestock. He stated that the villagers regularly hunt in retribution for killing domestic animals.
After a successful tiger hunt, he said the carcass was carried to the village in triumph. Following a victory, celebration was held where villagers paraded the tiger’s carcass and placing it on a platform beside the village gate in the same manner as depicted in the sculptures.
He further highlighted the reason behind the display of slain tigers beside the village gate. He said it was a symbol of strength as well as to convey a strong message to both men and animals alike that, ‘anyone who offends the Sungratsu village will be dealt severely.’
He also said that the monument has been a long-felt dream of the people of Sungratsu. Longchar credited the contributions of late Dr. Imtiwapang Aier and family for their generous contribution in making the monument a reality.
The wife of late Speaker, Kiehungle has acknowledged the tireless efforts and commitment rendered by the people involved in the project which is of historical significance for the people of Sungratsu even though her husband could not see the completion of the project.
She described her husband as a very committed man who never ceased to bring development in all aspects to the people and one who has vision to bring progress for the people.
She expressed hope that a day will come when almighty will bless the sons and daughters of Sungratsu to lead the people and bring prosperity to the land. She urged the people to stand united and support each in moulding the young generation into capable upright leaders.
C Wati Walling, convener of the Keyi Meta construction committee, shared stories from the village's history of tiger hunts, some of which have been lost over time. However, records exist from the 18th century until the practice was abandoned after 1972, he said.
Walling also informed about a book titled Sungratsu aser keyi otsu (Sungratsu and tigers stories), which was released by Sungratsu Senso Mungdang documenting tiger hunt accounts in details. The book recorded one notable event in October 1970 where 12 tigers were killed in a single hunt.