Mizos to preserve an old Bodhi tree in Myanmar
May 5, 2007: To preserve a Bodhi tree planted by ancestors of Mizos in Myanmar several centuries ago before they migrated to India, a Khampat Bodhi tree protection committee has been set up in Aizawl, capital of Mizoram state.
Locally, it is known as Khampat Bungpui Humhalhtu Committee (KBHC) that has been formed because the Bodhi tree is threatened with erosion by the river.
The ancient Bodhi tree was planted by ancestors of Mizos in Khampat Village in Tamu Township, Myanmar around hundreds years ago before they migrated to India.
Erosion of the river banks is threatening the three and it might collapse. In order to preserve the tree from the affects if erosion, the protection committee was formed, explained Dr. P.C Biaksiama, a convener of KBHC.
“The tree could get uprooted and fall because of erosion by the river. It will only be possible to protect the tree by setting up a retaining wall,” Dr. Biaksiama said.
Work on preserving the Bodhi tree can only be started after the KBHC gets enough funds from some enthusiastic Mizo organisations and individuals. The budget is estimated at around Rs. 2 lahks (US $ 4878). Therefore, the KBHC is unable to set a time frame to start the work of building the wall.
KBHC will first negotiate with Myanmar authorities regarding the preservation work. If the Myanmar junta does not give the go ahead to the project, the task is unlikely to proceed, Dr. Biaksiama added.
The contact address for those keen in donating to maintain the Bodhi tree project has been advertised in local newspapers in Mizoram.
Most Mizos will wholeheartedly help preserve an old Bodhi tree, as they believe Chins from Myanmar and Mizos from India have a common historical, traditional and cultural bond.
According to “Mizoram” a local website, Mizo ancestors had lived in Khampat village in Tamu township, Sagaing Division and moved to the Chin Hills in Burma. Finally, they shifted to India in the 16th century. – KNG.
