Pi Zaii Bangla (Heritage Building)

 

1. State/District/Town/Village: Mizoram, Aizawl, Mission Veng

 2. Name of the heritage building: Moderator Bangla (Pi Zaii Bangla)

 3. Date/Period: 1935

 4. Location: The building is located near Mission Veng Presbyterian Church and Presbyterian Church Girls School in Mission Veng, Aizawl.

 5. Approach -

   i) Airport: Lengpui Airport, Aizawl

   ii) Bus Stand: Sikulpuikawn

 6. Topographical features: The building is located on a sloping ground.

 7. Brief history: Pi Zaii Bangla, now recognized as Moderator Bangla, stands as one of the oldest heritage buildings in Aizawl, constructed during the British Colonial era. Despite undergoing renovations, it has preserved the original design crafted by the constructor, Rev. Lewis Evans (Pu Niara), in 1935. The building's history includes notable occupants, such as Miss Katie Hughes (Pi Zaii), who resided there from 1935 to 1962, followed by Miss Gwen Rees Roberts (Pi Teii), who called it home from 1944 to 1968, and Miss Mair Angharat Roberts (Pi Zopari), who lived there from 1965 to 1968. Subsequently, the house served as a residence for Mizo Pastors, with Rev. Lalnguraua Ralte taking up residence from 1968 to 1969.

8. Local tradition associated with the building: N/A

9. Architectural style: Colonial (Assam-type building)

10. Description of the Building: The initial measurements of the building indicate dimensions of 77 feet 10 inches in length and 54 feet 11 inches in width. The structure consists of six rooms and two bathrooms, featuring two fireplaces. In its original state, the house displayed a color scheme of black and white, with a skirting adorned in black paint, crafted from 3-ft cubic stones. The frames were also painted black, contrasting with the white walls. Notably, the building includes a verandah, porch, and backyard, along with four pillars positioned on the roof, one for each cardinal direction. Additionally, there are seven doors and 22 windows.

Over the years, the house has undergone renovations necessitated by natural wear and other factors. The Mizoram Synod has undertaken efforts to maintain its original character while refurbishing specific areas of the structure.

11. Building/Structural materials and other elements used: Building materials include hardwood, cubic stone, cement, clay, shredded sacks, and iron net.

 12. Usage: The building continues to serve as the residence of the Moderator, Mizoram Synod, for one year at a time.

 13. Ownership: Mizoram Synod

 14. Protection Status: N/A

 15. Condition of the built heritage: Fair

 16. Historical Importance: On June 3, 1935, a momentous gathering took place within the walls of Pi Zaii Bangla. Mission Sap and church leaders convened, and it was on this historic occasion that the decision to establish an association was reached. This building, Pi Zaii Bangla, holds a unique place in history as the birthplace of the renowned Young Mizo Association (YMA).

During this significant meeting, after much deliberation, Rev. Fr. David Edward, who happened to be Zorema's father, offered a thought-provoking suggestion. He astutely remarked, "If we approach this as Christians, our reach may not extend far enough to attract a substantial following. Instead, let's name it 'Young Lushai Association,' drawing inspiration from the Young Wales Association in Wales." This proposal, unanimously approved, marked a key moment in the association's inception.

 It's important to note that the use of 'Young' in the association's name does not imply an age-specific focus on children or youth. Rather, it signifies the youthful vigor and potential of the Mizo nation, a nation on the path of development and growth. Consequently, the Young Lushai Association came to be known as 'Mizo thanglai,' emphasizing its connection to the burgeoning Mizo community.

The initial leaders of the Young Lushai Association, or YLA, were referred to as Officers, a term that would later evolve into Office Bearers. The first set of YLA Officers comprised notable figures:

- President: Rev. Fr. L Evans, affectionately known as Mr. Niara

- Vice President: Miss K Hughes

- Treasurer: Rev. Fr. W Edward, fondly called Good Zorema

- Secretaries: Mr. Pasena and Mr. Vankhuma

In 1940, a pivotal development occurred with the formation of the Central YLA Committee. Then, on October 7, 1947, this central committee made a historic decision to change the name from 'Lushai' to 'Mizo,' solidifying the association's identity as the Young Mizo Association (YMA). This alteration reflected the evolving and unifying spirit of the Mizo people, encapsulating their aspirations and unity under the YMA banner.

17. General remarks: The Mizoram Synod has been proactive in preserving the building's originality by substituting materials as needed with those closely resembling the originals. This approach guarantees the longevity of the English constructors' original craftsmanship, which remains discernible even after many years.

18. Lister name with Date: Pc Lalrinawma, Work Supervisor, Synod, Mizoram. August 25, 2023.

Book References:

i) Hawla, Upa V: Zoram Hmarchan Zosapte Chanchin, The Synod Bookroom, Aizawl, 1969

ii) Hluna Dr. J.V: Mizoram Welsh Missionary Te Chanchin, Synod Publication Board, Aizawl, 1993.

He Field Project Report hi Government Aizawl West College history zirlaite'n Dr. Malsawmdawngliana ho a an tih a ni e.