My First Experience of Diwali in Hyderabad

In 2004, during my postgraduate studies at the University of Hyderabad, I had the privilege of sharing a unique experience with my fellow Mizo students. There were approximately 20 of us on campus, and that Diwali evening was an unforgettable occasion.

As it was a holiday, we decided to come together for dinner at the rented house of our senior, Mr. Taitea, a Ph.D. scholar, located in Pink Building, Sudarshan Nagar colony, Hyderabad. The house was a few miles away from our campus.

That Diwali evening was filled with excitement as we cycled down to Sudarshan Nagar. The prospect of gathering with our Mizo friends and savoring homemade Mizo cuisine, cooked by ourselves, was thrilling. Moreover, the break from our usual hostel food was a welcome respite.

As night fell, the surroundings transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds, with crackers and sparkling lights illuminating the neighboring areas. Some friends climbed to the rooftop to witness the breathtaking Diwali celebrations. I vividly recollect the Diwali lamp lights aglow in nearby houses, mesmerized by the grandeur of the festivities.

Being Mizo Christians, our thoughts naturally drifted to Christmas, which was approaching soon. With our semester nearing its end, we discussed booking tickets to return home after exams. The memory of those festive sounds and lights remains etched in my mind today.

We enjoyed a delicious dinner around 8 PM, which was a treat for students like me who often found hostel food unappetizing. Afterwards, we cycled back to campus, our lady friends seated comfortably on the back carriage seat.

The campus was alive with festive energy, and the food court area, affectionately known as Gops, was vibrantly decorated. Near the old tamarind tree beside the Chai shop, Radio Mirchi songs filled the air. Some friends indulged in zarda pan from Iqbal pan shop, owned by Jehangir's father.

Students and locals donned their finest attire, embracing the Diwali spirit. Others lined up at the PCO (Public Call Office), connecting with loved ones from afar. We gathered at Gopalji's shop verandah, sipping chai and engaging in lively discussions on academic topics, ranging from feminism, marxism and post-modernism etc.

As the evening drew to a close, we bid each other farewell, retiring to our respective hostels. That Diwali evening in Hyderabad remains a cherished memory. I hope my friends from those carefree days remain in good health and high spirits.

Even now in Lunglei, Mizoram, many memories come flooding back, and I am reminded of the joy of sharing that experience with my friends. I wish them all the best, and I hope they continue to live healthy and happy lives.

Tlangkhamphei lunglian: A Hidden Rock Conglomerate in Sialsuk's Zongaw Forest

Tlangkhamphei lunglian, Sialsuk 

Tlangkhamphei lunglian is a colossal conglomerate rock structure situated within the Zo Ngaw Reserved Forest area in Sialsuk village, Mizoram. The name Tlangkhamphei lunglian literally translates to 'the huge rock of Tlangkhamphei', with Tlangkhamphei referring to a specific area within the Zongaw forest in Sialsuk, and Lunglian meaning 'big' or 'huge rock'.

This natural wonder boasts a unique giant structure, featuring a mini cave at its lower end with a broader base that narrows towards the top. The cave walls bear inscriptions of names and other words from village elders, along with visible dates and years, adding to its historical significance.

Tlangkhamphei lunglian puk (cave)

Tlangkhamphei lunglian puk (cave)

The upper portion of the rock offers ample space to take in breathtaking views of the surrounding forest, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and group outings. Its expansive size can accommodate numerous visitors. With proper maintenance, Tlangkhamphei lunglian has the potential to become a premier tourist destination, offering opportunities for rock climbing adventures.

Aerial view of Tlangkhamphei Lunglian (Drone photo). Pic credit: Dina Pachuau 

Tlangkhamphei lunglin lower side as seen from above 

The rock conglomerate slopes downward, allowing visitors to carefully descend and enjoy the natural surroundings from a unique vantage point. In the 1990s, the Young Mizo Association (YMA) Sialsuk Branch developed the area, constructing rest shed and seats for visitors, and locals frequently used it for outings.

Tlangkhamphei lunglian 

Unfortunately, the site has fallen into disrepair, and younger generations rarely visit. Revitalizing and maintaining Tlangkhamphei lunglian would not only enhance its appeal but also benefit Sialsuk village by attracting tourists.

Tlangkhamphei lunglian as seen from lower side

How to reach Tlangkhamphei lunglian:

Option 1: Walking from Sialsuk Village

1. Start from Sikul Veng in Sialsuk village.

2. Follow the forest path from the Irrigation and Water Resources Department Rest House, it will take around 2-5 minutes walk.

Option 2: By Vehicle (for expert drivers)

1. Follow the non-metalled road/forest road as mentioned above.

2. Travel by car or two-wheeler (note: requires brave or expert driving skills).

Please note: The routes may require guidance from locals or GPS navigation, and the road conditions may vary depending on the season. It's always a good idea to check with local authorities or villagers for up-to-date information before embarking on your journey.

- Written by Dr Lalzarzoa

KINGKRES MONUMENT: A SYMBOL OF HOPE AND RESILIENCE

Kingkres monument | Sialsuk 

 - Dr. Lalzarzoa 

Kingkres, a significant landmark in Sialsuk village, is a monument constructed by the Thiangzau, a Christian sectarian group. Located at Vaiveng intersection street, it is easily visible and holds great historical importance.

The Kingkres monument has a fascinating story behind its construction. During the Mizo National Front's (MNF) struggle for independence from India, Thiangzau leader Pa Kawlha had a prophecy.

In 1971, as East Pakistan fell to the Indian army and became Bangladesh (the then East Pakistan), the MNF's safe haven became vulnerable. Pa Kawlha urged his sectarian members to build a monument using Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) within seven days.

Pa Kawlha prophesied that completing the monument within the deadline would ensure the MNF armies' safe escape from Bangladesh (the then East Pakistan). He warned that if the monument was not completed within seven days, the MNF armies would not be able to leave their headquarters freely.

Thiangzau members worked tirelessly, day and night, to complete Kingkres within the stipulated timeframe. Concurrently, MNF armies in distant Bangladesh (the then East Pakistan) safely evacuated.

Due to limited communication systems in Mizoram at the time, Thiangzau members only confirmed the fulfillment of Pa Kawlha's prophecy later, when they met returning MNF soldiers.

The Kingkres monument stands approximately 10 feet high, boasting a distinctive triangular shape. It features:

- A cross with the inscription "Kingkres" written upside down

- A front-side message in Mizo: "Hnam lung, A hmangaihna leh lalna, Pa leh fapa leh thlarau thianghlim pumkhat"

- A right-side inscription in Mizo: "Hun 1,2,3,4,5,6,7" (Translation: Time - 1,2,3,4,5,6,7)

-  PN. 4.7.1971 (Translation: Construction date: 4.7.1971)

Translated, the front-side message reads: "National Monument, His love and kingdom, United Father, Son, and Holy Spirit."

Notably, the origin and meaning of "Kingkres" remain unclear. Some village elders believe it to be an example of Pa Kawlha's "speaking in tongues," a spiritual practice where individuals utter sounds or words under divine inspiration, beyond their natural language.

Thiangzau members consider Kingkres a national monument, deeply connected to Mizo Nationalism and the MNF's struggle under Pu Laldenga's leadership from 1966 to 1986.

Key Details:

- Location: Vaiveng locality, Sialsuk village, Mizoram

- Constructed by: Thiangzau, a Christian sectarian group

- Year: 1971

- Significance: Symbol of hope, resilience, and Mizo Nationalism

COLONIAL ERA DISPENSARY IN SIALSUK: A PLEA FOR PRESERVATION

- Dr. Lalzarzoa 

The historic six-bedded dispensary in Sialsuk village, Mizoram, established in 1920 during the British Colonial era, is crying out for attention. Despite being declared a protected heritage site by INTACH Mizoram chapter and the Art & Culture Department, Mizoram government, the dispensary, doctor's quarters, and compounder's quarters are in dire need of maintenance.

Neglect and Disrepair:

The irony lies in the fact that the two agencies responsible for preservation have failed to provide proper upkeep, and there are no maintenance funds available. Furthermore, the Health department, Government of Mizoram, has neglected to renovate or maintain these buildings, allowing their condition to worsen over time.

- Occupancy Issues : The doctor's quarters and old dispensary building are occupied by local families, while the compounder's quarters are used by construction workers who do not prioritize maintenance.

- Damage and Deterioration : The doctor's quarters kitchen was severely damaged by Cyclone Remal in May 2024 and was fully dismantled without renovation. The main building stands poorly and requires immediate maintenance.

- Lack of Attention : The stone fencing and urinal also need attention, and the compounder's quarters' stone fencing and kitchen were removed years ago.

Cultural Significance:

The locality area, "Babu veng," meaning "the area where doctors reside," reflects the deep connection these buildings have with public memories. Locals affectionately call doctors "Babu."

Current State of Disrepair:

- Doctor's Quarters : Kitchen removed after Cyclone Remal damage, main building poorly standing

- Compounder's Quarters : Stone fencing and kitchen removed years ago

- Main Dispensary Building : Under pathetic conditions due to lack of maintenance

Call to Action:

As the Health department, Government of Mizoram, owns these buildings, the village council and local NGOs are unable to intervene. Repeated appeals to the health department staff and higher authorities have yielded no response. If the state government fails to act, it may be better to hand over maintenance and protection responsibilities to the village council or NGOs.

Colonial era buildings, Sialsuk, Mizoram, India.

Note: The images displayed are old and do not reflect the current condition of the buildings, except for the recent Compounder's quarters image.