HT Correspondent
DIBRUGARH, Oct 18: To commemorate the 108th year of the Anglo–Kuki War (1917–1919), the Assam Kuki College Professors’ Association (ASKCOPA), in collaboration with the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO), Karbi Anglong, organised an interactive web talk under the theme “Rekindling the Spirit of the Anglo–Kuki War: Inspiring Unity, Identity, and a Shared Destiny.”
The online session brought together academicians, research scholars, doctors, community leaders and other distinguished personalities from across Assam. It was hosted by Dr Paominthang Haokip, Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, Tinsukia College.
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The event began with a tribute to late music icon Dr Zubeen Garg, followed by an invocation by Rev Dr Sehjalam Doungel. Dr Lamkholal Doungel, president of ASKCOPA and Head of Political Science at DHSK College, delivered the welcome address and emphasised the need to draw lessons from the heroism and unity shown during the Anglo–Kuki War to address present-day challenges.
Key speakers included Dr Hoipi Haokip of Presidency College, Manipur, Pu L Doungel and Pu Thanglun Changsan, former President of Kuki Inpi Assam. The session was moderated by Dr Paochon Tuboi, Head of Sociology, SPP College, Sivasagar.
Dr Hoipi Haokip highlighted the often-overlooked role of Kuki women during the war, pointing to their involvement as transporters, informants and leaders. She stressed the cultural importance of rituals like Chang-ai that celebrate women’s contributions to family and society.
Pu L Doungel reflected on the sacrifices of legendary Kuki warriors such as Pu Chengjapao and Pu Tintong, drawing lessons on the importance of community unity and youth empowerment.
Pu Thanglun Changsan discussed modern challenges faced by the Kuki people, particularly the erosion of land identity and cultural memory. He called for a revival of self-reliance and community-driven governance.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Pu Liengin Singson, president of KSO Karbi Anglong, followed by a closing prayer from Pu Z Lutthang Thangeo, former president of KSO Assam.
The web talk reaffirmed the historical significance of the Anglo–Kuki War and its continuing relevance in promoting unity, identity and cultural pride within the Kuki community and beyond.
