Every Picture Has A Story

By: Himsiringdao Hapila The legend of how villagers turned into tortoises mystifies visitors to this day   Deep into the virgin forests of Assam’s remote Dima Hasao district, lies the secrets of the existence of century old tortoises, mired in legends, mysteries and supernatural beliefs. The Hajong lake, situated in the Langting-Mupa reserve forest of the has been the attraction of biologists, zoologists and nature loving tourists since the last few years, the big mystery being the existence of hundreds of Hill Terrapin tortoises, that seem to have made this lake their home. It is the only natural tortoise habitat in Assam.   There are many superstitious myths associated with the origin and existence of the lake and its tortoises that it bewilders the listener to disbelief about such absurd myths passed on from generations to this modern day. As a matter of fact, these legends have added curiosity among the visitors, propelling the local authorities to declare a day as tortois...

By: Himsiringdao Hapila Handloom is a vital part of the Indian culture and heritage that can be traced over thousand centuries in India. The exquisite designs that the artisans exhibit through their craftsmanship and handiwork are a testament to their efforts and distinct creativity.   Assam is famous for its extra-weft weaves, where the motif is embossed on the woven cloth – these motifs draw inspiration from rich Assamese tradition, folklore and legends.   Dipika Kakati began weaving commercially for low wages at an early age. She learned weaving at the early age of 8, she was taught by her mother.        ·        How long have you been weaving? OR How old were you when you were introduced to weaving? I have been weaving regularly ever since I was 15. We made  ghamosa  and other traditional clothes at home for the family. I am 39 years old now and continue to weave.   ·        What...

By: Himsiringdao Hapila   Vekuvolu Dozo is a young loin loom weaver from Nagaland.  Vekuvolu learned weaving from her aunt at the age of 18. She says, “It is important in our culture to know how to weave on a loin loom as a ritual in our tribe involves gifting a shawl to the groom by the bride.” Lion loom is one of the most primitive forms of weaving. Each strand of yarn is handpicked to form beautiful geometric patterns, using designs that are rooted in tradition, culture and mythology.   ·        Who’s the first person to introduce you with a handloom?   My mother’s sister taught me how to weave at the age of 18, right after which I got married. It is important in our culture to know how to weave on a loin loom as a ritual in our tribe involves gifting a shawl to the groom by the bride.    ·        How long have you been weaving? OR How old were you when you were  introduced to weaving? I ha...

Dzukou Valley Trekking Dzukou Valley The word Dzukou is originally derived from the Viswema dialect of the Angamis  which means "Soulless and Dull" referring to when some ancestors of Viswema who moved out to establish a new village in Dzukou, due to the unfavourable weather conditions  they were unable to harvest crops which led them to say  " The valley is very Beautiful but is dull and soulless ". The Dzukou Valley is situated at an altitude of more than 2200 m above sea level, behind the Japfu Peak,Nagaland; the valley shares the border of the states of Nagaland and Manipur. This valley is well known for its natural environment, seasonal flowers and flora & fauna. Miss Rajashree Khersa & Mr. Arjun Jahari There are two routes to ascend the mountain from different areas, Jakhama Village being one of the starting point and the other is a beautiful village Viswema, who gave the name to the valley. The shared sumo service...

Dzokou Valley Trekking (Nagaland) Last night we departed from Guwahati Railway station, Assam at 23:45 hrs and arrived Dimapur, Nagaland at 05:05 hrs, via Lumding in Nagaland Express. (Last week Of SEPT) Dimapur is a great hub for business, so lots of people do regularly travel. But to travel further into the state you need ILP( Inner Line Permit ). It is an official document issued by the Government of India to allow inward travel of an Indian citizen into a Protected area for a limited period. ILP can be obtained from Nagaland House situated in Guwahati, Assam OR can obtain from the Office of Deputy Commissioner, Dimapur, Nagaland. Welcome To Kohima Its was early morning when we reached Dimapur, and we departed at 05:10 hrs, we took the Zonal Taxi that we found outside the station.It was only few minutes of journey we feel the change in the air. The early morning breeze touching our faces, and few minutes more into the journey it fog. Its been a while that we h...