Staff Reporter
SHILLONG:
History buffs interested to know about the state’s contribution in the country’s freedom struggle against British colonialism are in for a treat as a book on Khasi freedom fighter, Ka Phan Nonglait, was launched at Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council’s (KHADC) conference hall, on April 29.
Titled, Ka Phan Nonglait – A Lady Freedom Fighter of India, the book, penned by Daniel Stone Lyngdoh, promises to be an insightful take on the freedom fighter and her life.
Stating that it took him not less than 19 years to write this book, Lyngdoh said, “The book is a product of a long research work. After reading many documents and meeting various people such as Late Rev Sngi Lyngdoh, Late Hoping Stone Lyngdoh, Late Skendrowell Syiemlieh and some British records, among others, I was enamoured by her struggle and how he stood against British rule.”
The book was released by executive member in-charge of the KHADC, Jambor War in the presence of Late Nonglait’s fourth generation descendants Reshningder Nonglait and Magdalyne Nonglait. “These were the bedtime stories our parents would tell us about Phan Nonglait,” said Reshningder. Magdalyne said that they recorded these stories of their forefathers and kept it as a written document.
“We the descendants of her are happy that the book on our great great grandmother has come out. It will give people an insight on her brave story 180 years ago,” Reshningder said.
Stating that today, citizens of the country recognise Phan Nonglait as one of the freedom fighters of India, Reshningder said, “We, the family of Phan Nonglait request the government to declare a state holiday on her the same as done for Tirot Sing Syiem, Kiang Nangbah. It will be a red-letter day and the posterity will also know about her.”
The book, however, is not Lyngdoh’s first work. Previously, he has penned a book on Spility Lyngdoh Langrin, who he calls a “champion” against uranium mining and it took him six months to write it.
Lyngdoh said, “A writer has to work hard to be creative and passionate about writing.”
The forward of the book has been written by Salman Khurshid and David R Syiemlieh and it narrates her life until her death on December 6, 1850 at Nongrmai village due to a prolonged illness. The first chapter of the book has a picture of Nonglaitbah, considered to be the first residence of Phan Nonglait’s parents and has a inspiring quote from Phan Nonglait – “The use of force against my people deeply pained my heart and I will continue to fight till my last breath.”
The book is available at online shopping websites as well.