Story of freedom fighter Pa Togan Nengminja to be scripted into drama
Williamnagar, Dec 12: The historic uprising of the Garos led by Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma against the occupying British forces and the great battle at Chisobibra where he valiantly fell fighting for the freedom of his people is to be enacted in plays and dramas to remind the younger generation of the rich history of their forefathers in the freedom movement.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today announced that the story of Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma will be properly scripted for plays and dramas to be used in schools and colleges. This initiative aims to encourage the younger generation to connect with the stories of their forefathers.
He made these remarks while attending the 153rd Death Anniversary of Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma at Togan Park, Chisobibra, Williamnagar, East Garo Hills.
The solemn programme paid tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and immortal legacy of the revered Garo freedom fighter whose life continues to inspire generations.
Announcing the government’s new initiative, he said, “We will encourage schools and colleges to organise plays and dramas on the lives of Meghalaya’s freedom fighters. A detailed script on Pa Togan’s life will be prepared and shared with educational institutions so that students can enact his story. This will help create awareness and inspire our youth to stay connected with their roots.”
He expressed delight that a short play on Pa Togan had already been prepared.
The chief minister said that the 153rd Death Anniversary of Pa Togan serves as an important reminder of the heroic deeds and sacrifices made for the Garo community and the nation.
He said, “Pa Togan stood up against the British Empire and sacrificed his life for the nation. His bravery was born out of deep love for his land and his people. As A’chik, we should be proud of Pa Togan. He fought to protect our land, our identity and our freedom. Our youth must be told about his deeds, his values and the ideologies he stood for.”
The Chief Minister stressed that the past carries the legacy of a people, and it is the responsibility of every generation to pass it on. “Our past reminds us of who we are, and we must continue reminding our future generation, especially the youth, about stories like that of Pa Togan. They must grow up knowing the heroes who shaped our land.”
He assured that the Government would continue to support the Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma Memorial Association in organising the annual commemoration.
He also informed that under the World Tourism Day Community-led Tourism Fund and the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund (CMSDF), the government has funded close to ₹17 lakh for infrastructure development at Chisobibra and will soon release an additional ₹20 lakh to further improve the site.
Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak expressed admiration for Pa Togan’s courage.
He said that Pa Togan’s sacrifice is a shining example of patriotism, leadership and unity, and emphasised the importance of preserving historical narratives that strengthen community pride.
He also thanked the organisers and the community for carrying forward the legacy of the warrior hero year after year.
“Heroic Story of Pa Togan Sangma”
The year was 1872. The forests of Rongrenggre whispered with urgency. Rumours had spread that British troops were marching into Garo Hills, seizing land and demanding submission. But in the heart of the dense forest stood a young leader whose courage was larger than the might of the empire, Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma.
Togan rallied his warriors near a giant cotton tree. He held not guns, but shields made of banana stems, a symbol that courage does not come from weapons, but from the spirit of a people who refuse to bow.
“Chakatbo!” he called to his men. “The land we stand on is not just soil; it is the pride of our forefathers. Today we fight not for ourselves, but for every A’chik child yet to be born.
As the British army advanced with rifles and bayonets, Togan and his warriors charged with battle cries that echoed across the hills. The clash was fierce. Outnumbered and out-armed, the A’chik warriors fought with unmatched spirit.
Pa Togan fought at the front, shielding his men and striking with unyielding determination. Even when he was surrounded, his voice rose across the battlefield: “A’chik janggi ong∙na! Our land must live!”
He fell that day, but not in defeat. His sacrifice ignited a fire that still burns in the hearts of the Garo people. His courage became a legend, his name a symbol of defiance, a reminder that freedom is earned by those who fear nothing except losing their identity.
