Rev Dr L Kari Longchar and writer Tiala Imchen with family members during the book launch of the biography of N Bendang Ao held on September 13.
Dimapur, September 16 (MExN): The official biography of N Bendang Ao, titled ‘Masetshilung: Man of Principle’ was launched by Ao Naga elder Rev Dr L Kari Longchar, former Executive Secretary, Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM) on September 13.
The book was written by Tiala Imchen, widely acclaimed for her wide-ranging literary works and her documentation of community stories, stated a press release received here.
“In one generation only a few people are born like N Bendang Ao,” Rev Kari said while adding that his legacy goes beyond his contribution to the Aos and Nagas.
Rev Kari described late N Bendang, who was handpicked by the State and Central government to establish the Northeast Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) at Dimapur, as ‘God fearing’ and someone who led by example, demonstrating Christian values, in his long years of public and community service.
Rev Kari, who happened to be a student of N Bendang, when the latter was headmaster of Clark Memorial School, Impur, described him as “courageous, truthful and wise.” He also remembers how as the then AKM President, N Bendang provided the much needed leadership to initiate dialogue with the church (ABAM) on the issue of religion and culture. “He was a strong advocate of preserving the good of Naga culture.”
The former ABAM Executive Secretary also put on record the efforts made by those who worked hard to save Clark Memorial School (now Clark Memorial Higher Secondary School) from closure. “Late N. Bendang provided his wisdom, understanding and vision in rebuilding the institution,” Rev Kari stated.
Speaking at the book launch, the author Tiala Imchen described late N Bendang as someone who ‘loved his people and community’ and through his good works, his legacy continue to live on. “We pray that our land will be blessed with more people like him.”
Tiala, whose book, “Ao Lima Nüktzü” (The Tears of Ao Naga Country) is catalogued in the Nagaland State Library, explained how the book title ‘Masetshilung’ was given for the biography of N Bendang Ao. “He was a purpose driven person from a young age, determined and focussed, standing firm in truth and selflessly serving his people and community,” Tiala said.
The writer also recounted listening to stories of his ‘hard life’, which included working in the paddy fields, stone-cutting as a manual labourer in road construction sites to earn and provide for the family. “He was the eldest son of a Pastor who was serving the Sangtam community in Eastern Nagaland and it was not easy to shoulder family responsibility and pursue his education.”
Despite the difficulties in life N. Bendang was ‘strong, courageous and feared the Lord’, explained the writer while adding that he loved and cared for those around him. Tiala also made special mention of his leadership qualities while steering the Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) in its early years as President (1964) and also as a senior member of the Naga Student Federation (NSF).
The book also brings to light his long years in service as a government servant, church volunteer and community elder. “He never failed to serve.” Known for resolving many a ‘difficult situation’ while in public service, N Bendang was well known for his ‘excellent decision making skills’ and ‘wisdom’,” Tiala said.
A former colleague, L Chubalepzuk Jamir, retired Deputy Director of DIPR who attended the book launch spoke about the many years of serving together and how he looked up to N. Bendang as a mentor and guide.
His role and selfless contribution in building the Northeast Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) is also well documented in the book.
As a tribute to N Bendang Ao, several personalities from different walks of life have contributed their story and experiences to the book.
In his tribute, Rev Dr Wati Aier described him as “a man of distinction” and “a mentor to countless individuals” whose public service was “marked by integrity, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.”
“The contribution towards Tsarü Baptist Church is countless and the community of Tsarü, Tuensang District fondly remembers his effort and sacrifice,” states Athriba Sangtam, Pastor Tsarü Baptist Church while describing “how one person can make a profound impact in the lives of others across tribe and culture.”
Describing N Bendang as a true son of the soil, former Lok Sabha Member of Parliament, K Asangba Sangtam remembers how the Longkumer family “integrated seamlessly” into the Tsaru community, to the extent that the villagers regarded them as members of the Sangtam tribe and how his family maintained a deep connection with Tsaru.
Neichute Doulo, the CEO of Entrepreneurs Associates, in his tribute mentions how ‘uncle Bendang’ offered wisdom and guidance “to see good change happen in Nagaland.”
“One thing that really stood out about Uncle was his genuine kindness and love for people, which guided all his actions. His unwavering commitment to make a difference and create a better world for posterity will be remembered with deep reverence and respect, guiding me personally as I continue my walk,” Neichute adds.
Joshua Lorin, Principal, Oriental Theological Seminary (OTS) described N Bendang as a “founding pillar of OTS” and that he left behind a “legacy of vision and selfless service.”
“In the annals of Oriental Theological Seminary (OTS) history, few figures stand as tall as N Bendang Longkumer — a man whose altruistic spirit and visionary leadership left an indelible mark on theological education in Northeast India,” Lorin stated in a tribute.
“Today, students and faculty benefit daily from the infrastructure he helped build, the standards he helped set, and the culture of service he exemplified,” Lorin stated while recalling that in acknowledgment of “his extraordinary contributions, he was honored as one of only two Life Patrons of OTS — a title recognizing holistic and sacrificial commitment to the Seminary’s mission and values.
The book launch was a warm and nostalgic event, reliving the life and legacy of N. Bendang Ao. “Legacy is not about leaving something for people; it’s about leaving something in people and through the book, his legacy lives on,” said Dr Alongla P Aier, Professor of English & Communication, who chaired the event.
