Makuilongdi

"Makuilongdi" holds a significant place in the history of the Zeliangrong people. This settlement is believed to be the cradle of Zeliangrong society and culture, playing a crucial role in the development of their social, political, and religious practices. Here is a summary of the information you provided:

Oriin and Settlement: Makuilongdi, derived from "Makui" meaning round and "Longdi" meaning big hill/mountain, translates to "big round hill." The Zeliangrong people were the first settlers in this area. Some migrants from Chawangphungning established this village. The fertile land allowed for surplus food production, leading to population growth. Over time, smaller villages formed under the jurisdiction of Makuilongdi.

Social and Political Development: Makuilongdi is believed to have been the source of various key aspects of Zeliangrong society. This includes lineage-based organization, patrilineal social structure, chieftainship, village councils, dormitory systems, festivals, religious beliefs, and social customs. The village chief played a significant role in the political system, and the people enjoyed a prosperous and peaceful life.

Legends and Migration: Legends surround Makuilongdi. One legend involves cicadas warning the people about violating the lunar calendar and natural laws due to excessive celebrations. Another legend involves a family crisis over the choice of successors between two sons of the village chief, Nguiba. This led to the migration of one son's descendants, known as Zeme, to the Barak River plains. The Liangmei remained in Makuilongdi, while the Rongmei migrated to various areas, including Tamenglong District in Manipur.

Reasons for Migration: Migration from Makuilongdi can be attributed to various reasons, including overpopulation, the practice of shifting cultivation, non-availability of cultivatable lands, and internal conflicts over the succession to hereditary chieftainship.

Spread and Settlements: The Rongmei, a group that emerged from Makuilongdi, were known for their adventurous spirit. They migrated and settled in various places in the Northeast region of India, such as Tamenglong, Churachandpur, Senapati, Imphal, Thoubal, and Bishnupur Districts in Manipur, as well as parts of Nagaland and Assam.

Overall, Makuilongdi serves as a crucial historical and cultural landmark for the Zeliangrong people. It played a foundational role in shaping their society, traditions, and subsequent migrations to different regions of Northeast India.

Image Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZm2-fmJRts

Rephrase by Admin from Creation and Origin Myths and Legends of the Rongmei (Kabui) by Luthonliu Gangmei and Laimayum Bishwanath Sharma

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