Nostalgic ‘sneak peek’ at the event to mark Remembrance Day

An attendee from England also shared intergenerational insights

IH News Desk

REGIONAL, November 11, 2025: On Remembrance Day, Nagaland government in collaboration with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission held a commemorative event titled "A Conversation on the Battle of Kohima: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow" at Kohima Tuesday. Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio attended and honoured special guests including representatives from the British and Irish embassies.

Reflecting on personal experiences, Rio shared memories of British soldiers in his village during the war and the legacy of his father's service in the Assam Regiment under the British.

The event featured a significant discussion between Abu Metha, an advisor to the Chief Minister, and Mmhonlumo Kikon, an author and scholar. They revisited the Battle of Kohima highlighting its historical importance and relevance today.

Kikon felt the need for storytelling about the battle, noting the lack of written records. He acknowledged the humanitarian contributions of the Naga people during the war, contrasting their support with the aggressive actions of the Japanese forces.

An attendee from England, linked to a British army engineer who contributed to the Naga Hospital during the war, also shared intergenerational insights. Kikon pointed out the transformation of former adversaries into friends, referencing past peace initiatives involving the British High Commission and the Japanese Embassy in Kohima.

He remarked on ongoing Japanese visits to the Naga Hills focused on recovering the remains of their soldiers framing the narrative of Kohima as one of reconciliation and peace. The ceremony drew a diverse audience including officials from the British and Irish embassies, academics and government officials.

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