True knowledge is not attained by thinking. It is what we are; it is what we want to be…
The ‘Mary Help of Christians Church’ Cathedral of Nagaland is located on Aradura Hills in Kohima. It is one of the biggest cathedrals in North East India. Its splendid architecture makes it one of the important landmarks of Kohima.
The unique design created by blending the traditional with the orthodox resulted in an architectural marvel. It is also home to the largest cross that is made of wood in the country. The magnificent crucifix is carved in wood and is 16 ft high, possibly one of the tallest wooden carved crucifixes in Asia.
The construction commenced in 1986 and the cathedral was mostly funded by the people of Japan who wished to construct a monument to the Japanese soldiers who died in the Battle of Kohima during the Second World War. For this reason, a quote is engraved in the environs of the cathedral:
“…It is with thankfulness that we heard that a Catholic Cathedral was built at Kohima, where Mass would be offered every morning in the memory of the fallen…”
There is also another inscription near the entrance to the building:
“When you enter in here, bring before the Lord all those who gave their life and who will give their all, for your safer and better Nagaland.”
Interestingly the cathedral was used as the venue for reconciliation meetings between the Japanese and British veterans who fought each other during the war.
Life is beautiful.
Victor Ghoshe
22.04.2016

