The Nagas

Hill Peoples of Northeast India

Project Introduction The Naga Database

diaries kept by Ursula Graham Bower on visits to Manipur and North Cachar between 1937 and 1940

caption: dispensary in Kuki village; on to Laisong
medium: diaries
location: Laisong
date: 9.3.1940
production:
person: Graham Bower/ Ursula
acquirer:
person: private collection
text: (12) Laisong. March 9th.
text: Went down to village. Held long and wearying dispensary in alternate hot sun and cold wind; case of septic eczema was sent to hospital by Booth. Kuki dance; rather dull. Young men & dhan- pounder rather better. Two youths take hold of a dhan-pounder by opposite ends & at the word "go" push with all their might to force the other man backwards out of the ring.
text: Saw school. Katcha building, but very good show for new enterprise. Two Nzemi lads, and umpteen little Kukis. Have promised to give a prize for each class, & special prize for Nzemi who makes most progress.
text: In evening marched on to Laisong, which is not far. Met by large reception committee; dozens of gaonburas, arches, banana-avenues, & the men & (13) maidens of the village in full dress of the most colourful description. Zu at reception, more in morung, which is a fine big house. Water supply piped from hillside through village. Outside village saw mound of earth, conical, about 15' diameter, 10' feet high; something to do with dhan puja. Must inquire.
text: Perao required assorted rebuilding, my H of P being nearly opposite the cookhouse door. Felt chilled, shivery and rotten. Arrangements under weigh for big feast; khabbar given to neighbouring villages; negotiations for mithan begun.