HISTORICAL BACKGROUND AND SIGNIFICANCE OF MEZOMA VILLAGE
Introduction to Mezoma
Mezoma is one of the Villages in Kohima Tehsil in Kohima District in Nagaland State. Mezoma is located 18 km distance from its Tehsil Main Town Kohima.
According to a villager, the lack of quality schools forces many villagers to migrate to Zubza or urban areas in search of better opportunities and education for their future. This migration is evident in the isolated households and old tin roofs, as few return to the village. Notable exceptions to the village’s lack of infrastructure are the presence of churches, as good buildings are rare.
However, Mezoma provides a welcome escape from the desolate reality of urban Naga lands, much like other neighboring villages such as Khonoma. The vibrant rice fields in October are a distinct feature, compensating for the absence of proper roads and offering scenic views of the hills. Additionally, Mezoma village has been an epicenter for Naga cultural and traditional practices. It is known for its rich heritage, including traditional crafts, music, and dance forms that have been preserved and passed down through generations. The village has also been actively involved in promoting traditional cultural festivals and events, showcasing the unique customs and identity of the Naga people.
Today, Mezoma village continues to be a significant cultural and historical landmark in Kohima, drawing tourists and visitors who are interested in exploring Naga heritage. It serves as a reminder of the past and the resilience of the Naga people in preserving their cultural traditions. Agriculture is the main profession of this village. Education, Drinking water & Electricity might be some of the main concern of this village. However, this village is not looking for Industrial development as the aim to preserve the cultural heritage of the village.
Historical background & Significance
Mezoma village, located in Kohima, is divided into three distinct khels, each contributing to the unique character of the village. As one approaches the village, they are greeted by an impressive sight of six gates in the village, standing tall as guardians to this vibrant community. The origins and ancient civilization of Mezoma are shrouded in mystery, for unfortunately, the lack of documented records from the ancestors makes it challenging to trace back its historical roots. Nevertheless, despite this historical ambiguity, Mezoma village boasts a thriving population of approximately 4000 individuals in the present day.
Some significant places of Mezoma village are discussed below:-
- One notable landmark within the village is Dzülubou, a pond that holds a significant place in the village’s history. In the past, this pond served as a gathering spot for the brave hunters of Mezoma, providing them with a place to refresh themselves after successful hunting expeditions. The pond was also an exclusive event reserved for the youth of the community. It is important to note that during this time, women were restricted from participating in it. However, as societal norms have evolved over time, this practice has gradually faded away and is no longer prevalent in today’s society.
Surrounding the pond, is found a collection of erected stones. This tradition of erecting stone is known as “pfiizuo” in Mezoma, where upon hosting feast of merit seven (7) times, a person was eligible for pfiizuo. In the Naga tradition, usually a person who has conducted the feast of merit seven (7) times was eligible to erect stones in commemoration of such event.
The feasts of merit were usually held with the purpose of fostering an atmosphere of peace and an attempt to maintain or bring about equality among the villagers, emphasizing the importance of community. Thus, over 300 stone pillars that stands erected represented equality and number of people who hosted feasts of merit in the village. In addition to this, there is a resting shed build near the pond and pillar for any visitors to rest.
It is to be noted that there were significantly higher number of stone pillar but was evicted and destroyed for the purpose of clearing paths for making roadways in modern day. This area with stone pillars in Mezoma is considered to be one with the most number of traditionally erected stones gathered in one particular place in Nagaland.
- The Lovers Path
The Lovers’ Path, also called chakhwicha, known for its captivating charm, offers a unique experience. As the couple traverses the path, the female leading the way and the male following closely, they encounter 32 delightful turning points. At each turn, they catch glimpses of each other’s faces, heightening the allure of this enchanting trail, hence earning its endearing title, the Lovers’ Path.
- Another significant art work that holds a significant place in the security aspect of the village is a human like structure which is placed alongside the main footpath leading to the field and is made of straw, shrubs and wood. The main objective of such structure is to mislead the enemies during the head hunting era.
- Chadanyi is another significant event in Mezoma where the villagers gathered to clean footpaths leading to their field.
- Vihutsumia Kuda is a location positioned in the heart of the village, serving as a central hub for various activities and interactions within the community.
- Both males and females had their own respective Pfhehu. Men folk convene meetings to discuss crucial matters related to the village while women folk convene their own meetings and affairs occupying their own pfhehu. This was of great importance before the village council system was established. Additionally, the pfhehu would organize various sports and games, a tradition that continues to this day.
- In the captivating village of Mezoma, nestled amidst tranquil surroundings, stands an ancient oak tree that bears witness to the passage of time, for it is believed among the villagers that this majestic tree predates even the establishment and formation of the settlement itself.
In conclusion, although the exact origins of Mezoma village may remain a mystery, its captivating history and vibrant present-day community stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of its people.
With its distinct khels, impressive gates, and storied traditions, culture, heritage and rich history, Mezoma village serves as a remarkable example of a cohesive and culturally-rich community, fostering growth, development, and a shared sense of identity among its inhabitants and the Nagas.
The spirit of unity and cooperation in Mezoma village is observable through the villagers’ collective efforts to maintain cleanliness and upkeep. Regular gatherings are organized to clean the pathways and ensure a pristine environment for everyone to enjoy. This commitment to communal well-being exemplifies the strong sense of community that prevails within Mezoma village, reinforcing the values of togetherness and shared responsibility.
Submitted by Group-1
Boka Swu
Chetsho-ii Khutso
Dolenthogdi Mongba Chang
Dziesevinuo Seyie
Dzuvingunuo Solo
HunuluYhobu
Huvelii Puro
Ipetraing Rau
Kevizevo Pusa
Khriesi-ii Zumu
Rubenthung W. Ngullie
Nuphilii
Political Institutions and Governance
Mezoma is a village in the Western Angami region located in Sechü- Zubza circle of Kohima District, Nagaland with a total population of around 4000s and about 340 households divided into three different khels. It is situated 20km away from district headquarter of Kohima.
Prior to colonial rule, the Mezoma political structure was a sort of sovereign village with no village chief. As agriculture was their main occupation, any villagers who had a lots of land for cultivation and granaries and who hosted feast of merit to the entire village were considered as the richest men and were given opportunity in the decision making body of the village. Besides that, the village was legislated and executed by elderly people with the advice of the elderly or senior citizens. Like any other Naga villages, women were not really encouraged in the decision making of the village, women were more confined to the domestic chores and field work.
After the adoption of the village councils system in 1970s the development of village progressed. Mezoma village council like any other village council has a Chairman, Secretary and other members to regulate the system of the village life pertaining to their cultivation such as jhum and paddy cultivation and even the system of their cattle and Mithun rearing and regulations of the grazing. The Village Council also supervise proper maintenance of water supply, roads, education and other activities. The village council along with the Gaon Buras regulate festivals and the village councils were given full powers to deal with the internal affairs of the village and to maintain law and order.
Today, Mezoma village is headed by the village chairman who is the head of the Village Council and organise the affairs of the village. The village council is the apex body of the village administration. This further promoted the democratic values of voting and electing the right representative from among themselves to carry out the executive and judicial functions of the village. Today, the highest authority of the village is the village council. Though many changes in the village have taken place, the village customary law still plays an important role in the village.
Submitted by Group-2
Hemafi
Inaka
Kelhouletuo-ii
Kimmy Sheqi
Krishna Sunar
Kiiwieshu Ngouri
Lihnon
Monglem S. Phom
Neico Kapfo
Niloto Yeptho
Novin Gurung
Petekhrie-ii Metsieo
Pinky Gouda
Ruokuolenuo Sogotsu
Vinozole Thami
TOPIC: SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROFILE
Group 3
Sukhenthong
Lanusangla
Gangjei N Konyak
Tonglin
Thechano Y Lotha
Sanjana Sarki
Wechu Mero
Himal KC
Thejazo Huozha
Shoyum T Phom
Tavine Movi
Hukaito Achumi
T.Sukho
Liyoh Domeh
SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROFILE
Mezoma is a large village located in Sechü- Zubza circle of Kohima district, Nagaland with total 340 families residing. Mezoma village is an Angami village situated around 18 km from Kohima. Surrounding towns and cities of Mezoma Village are Kohima, Dimapur, Phek, Wokha and Bokajan. Mezoma Village is administrated by head of the village (sarpanch) who is elected representative of the village.
The socio and economic condition of Mezoma is very much diverse. The people of mezoma practice animism but it has vanished completely after the coming of Christianity. At present the whole villagers follow Christianity. There is no doubt that modernity has established its undeniable mark among the people of Mezoma. Some of the older traditions have been abandoned for good because everything that is old is not good.
The population of Mezoma is about 4000, of which the average working age composes of 1100 males while 1077 are females but most of the people are living outside the village. In Mezoma Village out of total population, 1058 were engaged in work activities, 90.2 of workers describe their work as main work (earning more than 6 months) while 9.8% were involved in marginal activity providing livelihood. The villagers mainly practice terrace and shifting cultivation and most of the agriculture products are transported to Kohima and Dimapur for sale. Some of the crops cultivated by them include paddy, maize, millet and some vegetables like beans, pumpkin, cabbage, chayote etc.
The village is blessed with abundance of fresh water sourced straight from the river.There are also many historical places in Mezoma village which attracts a large number of tourist.
Mezoma village has a student population of about 2000. Mezoma has higher literacy rate compared to Nagaland, the literacy rate of Mezoma village was 87% compared to 79%of Nagaland. In Mezoma Village, the male literacy rate stands at 92.45% while female literacy rate was 82.62%. The first Primary School was established in 1901.There are four schools in Mezoma village i.e,
- Government Primary School, MezoKuotsu
- Government Primary School, MezoPhetsu
- Government High School, Mezoma
- Joseph’s School
Mezoma students’ Union organizes timely Cultural and Literary day to celebrate and preserve the rich culture and heritage of the village which also engage in the promotion of tourism. It is understood that Mezoma village has a diverse social and economic background with many historically significant places which makes it ideal for tourism as well as research purpose.
CHANGING TRENDS OF MEZOMA VILLAGE
Mezoma Village is one of the oldest village in Nagaland with a population of around 4000 and around 300 household. The villageis divided into three (3) khels. Mezoma possesses rich natural resources, particularly the availability of water resources which is very essential for the people.
Like many other Naga villages, Mezoma also was purely traditional. Ritualistic practices were common until the coming of Christianity during the British colonization. With the coming of Christianity such traditional rituals became uncommon in the village and have gradually declined. An adjustment to the modern outlook and adoption of a modern lifestyle is observed.
Changing Trends in the Political sphere:
Traditionally, the village political system was legislated and executed by the elderly people, under whose advice the village was governed. Agriculture being the primary occupation, and person with land for cultivation and granaries were considered as a rich person in the village; they had more power and opportunity in the decision making of the village. Meanwhile, most decision making was made by men, women did not receive much opportunity.
The transition from the traditional form of governance to the modern concept of the Village Council system brought some changes in the political aspects of the village. The election of the Council Chairman, the Village Development Board and reservation for women as well as youth has brought about decentralization of power and widened democracy to a certain extent in the village. The Village Council Act, 1979, has laid down certain rules and regulations which keeps the village accountable and responsible for its governance. The shift from the traditional to the modern has brought about a change that places all individual as equal before the law.
Development and Infrastructure of the village:
The traditional village used raw material and traditional/manual methods for any kind of work. The modern technology was unknown to them as they focused on their livelihood through agriculture and nature. The houses would be mostly build with wood or bamboo, mixture of mud, straws or cow dung etc. for plastering the houses. The use of cement and concrete were not known to them, road connectivity to village was not developed, and there was no electricity in the village. However now, the sight of stone work, whether of roads or forts or houses, is a significant feature of Mezoma village. The use of concrete and cement for houses is evident, similarly the use of modern technologies such as TV, vehicles, mobile phone etc. are obvious features.
The adoption of the Village Council system and the establishment of village development board (VDB) can be one factor in bringing about such developmental progress. The sight of various schemes such as MGNREGA with regard to erection of walls, water tanks, roads etc. are testimony to such developments. Better road connectivity and the electricity are also changes observed with regard to changes in the infrastructure and development of Mezoma village.
Changes in Education system:
The Morung is considered as the traditional place of education where the children and the youths learnt their culture, norms and values. Thus, Mezoma also followed the traditional learning system, the Morung or Kichüki, before the coming of Christianity and modern education. The Morungs now exists only as meeting places and are maintained by specific overseers. They have stopped playing role of educating.
The first school established in Mezoma, under independent India, was the Government Primary School in 1901 which exists till now.This Government Primary school was later upgraded. With modern education gaining popularity among Nagas, private schools were also established. Catholic schools such as St. Joseph High school Mezoma, was one such early schools. With the introduction and growth of the modern education system, the rate of illiteracy has reduced. Meanwhile, children and the parents have both realized the importance of the modern education and its necessity for the growth of a modern society. Thus, the system of education has changed from traditional to modern.
An observation of Mezoma village indicates a transformation fromthe traditional to the modern in various aspects as discussed above.
Some of the main causes with regard to the changing trends in Mezoma village are:
- The coming and acceptance of Christianity in the village.
- The adoption of village council system
- The establishment or the introduction of modern or western education system.
Submitted by Group-4
Nikita Sundas
Parbati Paribar
Sanjana Mahat Chetri
Viewolo Koza
Vikethonuo Chupuo
Vivek Thapa
Yantsushan H Odyuo
Zantingmong
Abemo Kikon
Charovio Kesiezie
Ayei Konyak
Dijongli T Sangtam
Emso
Emilo N Shitiri
Visavonuo Rhetso
Thujove Vadeo
Social Issues and challenges
One day rural visit to Mezoma was organised by the Department of Sociology, Baptist College for the 5th Semester students on 13th of October 2023 with the objective to expose the students with knowledge of rural society. Altogether 66 students along with 6 teaching faculty turned up for the tour.
Mezoma village is the 3rd largest village in the Western Angami Constituency with around 4000 population and 300 households. It is a village which holds many historical significance and rich cultural heritage. The village is located around 20kms away from the state capital. Although the village is blessed with a rich history and resources such as water, forest, paddy field etc. it is observed that the village is not free from social issues and challenges which confront their daily lives.
Some of the major challenges include unemployment resulting to poor economic condition, improper road connectivity, lack of good infrastructure such as community hall, poor facilities attached to primary health centers and schools etc. despite the fact that the village literacy rate has increased over the years, unemployment persists specially among the youths. Many young men and women come back to village and engage in agriculture work for survival. There is also lack of opportunities for commercial marketing and production of goods, lack of modern tools and mechanism to ease the workload of the villagers. Besides few people employed in government sector, majority of the villagers engage in agriculture for sustenancewhich is purely traditional in nature and does not yield much economic profit.
Though the village locates very near to the State capital, development and facilities are very poor which is evident in the road connectivity leading to the village, infrastructure of the houses and simple lifestyle of the villagers. The village has 1 High school, 2 Govt. Primary Schools and 1 private school run by the Catholic Association; all these educational institutions are running with very limited resources and facilities.
The village has a strong norms and customary practices and therefore seldom encounters social deviance and crime within the village. One important challenge of the village is coping up with the changes of the modern era especially in Information and Communication Technology which mostly affect the elder generation who are computer illiterate. Gender equality is encouraged; womenfolk are seen as the backbone of the family although challenges faced by them in a patriarchal society are inevitable.
Submitted by Group 5 (Sechü Campus):
Gabriel
Kezevinuo
Neitsinuo
Peteneinuo
Subhash
Vikhozotuo