Melhite Kenye
Morung Express News
Dimapur | February 22
Centenarian Melhite Kenye, best known as Nagaland’s ‘Paddy Man,’ passed away at the age of 100 on Tuesday morning.
A Guinness World Record holder for discovering the tallest paddy in the world in 1998, Kenye also received Governor's Gold Medal in 2002 for his feat.
Late Melhite Kenye was born in Chizami village under Phek District in 1922 and was one of the early Christian converts from the village. Following his marriage, Kenye migrated to Dimapur and served as Pastor of Dimapur Chakhesang Baptist Church, and Pastor of Town Baptist Church, Chümoukedima for a long period, spanning nearly four decades.
During his time as Pastor of Town Baptist Church, Chümoukedima, Kenye discovered the world’s tallest paddy— Melhite Kenye Lha, and was recognized by the Guinness record authorities as the discoverer of the tallest rice plant variety in the world.
He received a certificate signed by Guinness´ keeper of records Stewart Newport for discovering the 2.55 meter (8.5 feet) tall rice plant.
The certificate acknowledged that the rice plant, which the pastor found in October 1998 “had 175 stalks and 510 grains in each ear” making it the tallest paddy species found so far in the world.
Mourning Kenye’s demise, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu noted that his passing was a great loss to the Naga people.
“I send my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members. May God, grant you solace and peace of mind in this hour of bereavement. May the departed soul rest in peace,” Rio stated in a condolence message.
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton shared his grief on Twitter on Tuesday. “Saddened by the news of Shri Melhite Kenye's demise. A Guinness World Record holder and recipient of Governor's Gold Medal for discovering the tallest paddy in the world, his passing is a great loss to the Nagas. My condolences to the bereaved family. May his soul rest in peace!” he tweeted.
