Kuki researchers on the forefathers' trail
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 25 2012:
A 16-member team of Kuki Research Forum has reportedly carried out a three-day expedition from February 22 during which research works were conducted at three different caves located in Sajik Tampak area of Chandel district.
speaking to The Sangai Express vice chairman of the Forum Dr Helkhomang Touthang (PhD/Anthropology) said that the cave expedition was conducted to specifically understand history and activities of the Kuki forefathers.
Informing that Songbuh cave at near Khomunnon, Phoikon Haosapi cave of S Hangnom village and Senlung cave of Kholmunlen village were covered during the expedition, Dr Helkhomang expressed elation that the search team discovered a number of stone carvings inside the caves.
Construing that carvings inside the cave is an indication that the Kuki forefathers either lived in caves or settled close to such natural shelters, he opined that precision about history of the Kuki forefathers could be established only through more and detailed research works.
These caves were said to have been discovered at a hill range called Sajik Tampak Kanna area that lies close to the Indo-Myanmar international boundary.
Apart from discovering carvings inside the caves elderly villagers of Kholmunlen shared vital information on the folklores of the Kuki forefathers to the research team, the Forum functionary mentioned.
Informing that Senlung terminology is seldom used among the Kukis for it is considered inauspicious, he said the Senlung cave is referred as Haosapi and entry to the same should be preceded by placing a boulder at the entry point and invoking blessing from the almighty.
Dr Helkhomang quoted the village elders as saying that not following the ritualistic procedures brings misfortune to those individual who enters the said cave.
Upon entering Senlung cave the research team members discovered piling of stones/boulders in a systematic manner and signs of human settlement, Dr Helkhomang maintained and sought cooperation of research scholars of Manipur in the Forum's future endeavour to trace roots of the forefathers.
Among others the search team included Dr Priyadarshini M Gangte, Asst Prof Letkhojam Haokip of Guwahati University, YK College Lecturer Hoipi Haokip and Moirang College Lecturer Lhingneilam Lupheng, he said while informing that a reception programme of the research team was also organised by Kuki Inpi Manipur at the Old Lambulane office premises of the Forum.