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Today, by jeep along the by-pass and thence to Jotsoma. |
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Like all the Angami villages I have so far seen, Jotsoma is perfectly situated. Its four Khels (Toloma, Tseyama, Kroma, (Khweuma) and Thekronoma) are strung out along a spur and as you move from one Khel to another, more and more lofty vistas come into view. Each Khel has at least one look-out post and from this vantage point all the surrounding country can be scanned. The post is usually a small fort, and stands 20 feet or so above the ground. It is made of stones carefully laid on top of each other and is reached by a narrow staircase. On the top is a broad open space with a low parapet. In origin these forts were doubtless intended as watch towers from which to detect approaching enemies. Since the Pax Britannica however they have lost this function and the Tseyama Khel told me that when they made a fort thirty years ago, it was because they needed a central place for feast and meetings. (11) |
