Ato Kilonser of NSCN/GPRN, Th. Muivah and RVS. Phungnang, Headman of Somdal on Monday evening lit up the “MEILĀ” at Gethsemane Somdal.
This was followed by lighting of meilā by Ikhres Muivah wife of Th. Muivah at the New Church Building site and gradually followed by the villagers of Somdal and people from various places of Tangkhul villages.
Meilā Kashār or the lighting of pine torch carries a deep significance. Before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in 1923, the village of Somdal lived in spiritual darkness. But after receiving the Holy Spirit that year, the power of darkness was defeated. Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, revealed divine truth and dispelled the shadows of sin and ignorance.
In 1924, during the Risit Phanit (Mangkhap Phanit), Ojā Reichumhao Rungsung, the pioneer of the Somdal Baptist Church, took the lead and encouraged every household to light a Pine Torch.
This act symbolized that Jesus, the Light of the World, had triumphed over the darkness that had long overshadowed our village. This enlightenment later on, produced outstanding figures like Suisa Rungsung, Reichumhao Rungsung & Āvākharar – Th. Muivah from this village who were and are a valuable assets to the Naga nation.
The lighting of the Pine Torch began in Somdal and gradually spread to the western part of Wung Tangkhul. This practice is deeply biblical — an indigenous expression of the Lordship of Christ over our village and our lives. It also aligns with our National Movement because it reflects our declaration: “Nagalim for Christ.”
In honour of beloved Avākharar – Th. Muivah, the Ato Kilonser of NSCN/GPRN, historic homecoming and to show unwavering support for the just cause, the people light the Pine Torch here in Somdal, and throughout Wung Tangkhul and beyond, acknowledging the guiding hand of Jehovah, who led the Israelites by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night.
“That same God continues to lead the Naga people to this very day. So, as we take part in this Lighting of the Pine Torch, Torch March, and Bonfire in Somdal and throughout Wung Tangkhul tonight, may it serve as a solemn reminder that the God who delivered the Israelites from Egyptian bondage will neither leave us nor abandon us in the wilderness, but will faithfully lead us into the Promised Land” stated Rev. Yarngam Muivah.
It is also a symbol of keeping the flame of hope burning, for the darkest hour is just before dawn. The participants sings hymns clad in a traditional colourgul attires.
