Have you ever ventured into the lesser-known corners of Maraland (Siaha District), Mizoram, and stumbled upon the hidden gem called 'Phura'?
If you're not a resident of Mizoram, chances are you haven't heard of this quaint village tucked away in the heart of the Siaha District.
Nestled in the southern expanse of Siaha District, Mizoram, in the vibrant landscape of North East India, Phura stands out as the fourth-largest village in the region.
Positioned approximately 6 kilometers shy of Pala Lake, a revered Ramsar Site in India, Phura emanates an aura of serenity and charm.
Referred to affectionately as 'The Ricebowl of Maraland,' Phura boasts fertile plains and abundant natural resources and flora fauna, earning its title as the 'All-In-One village' where one can find nearly everything they seek.
A Road Map to Phura
Embarking on a journey from Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram, Phura lies approximately 315 kilometers away.
Travelers en route from Aizawl to Phura will traverse through a scenic route, passing by notable towns and villages like:
- Lunglei
- Lawngtlai, and
- Siaha.
These bustling hubs are just a glimpse of the diverse tapestry that unfolds along the journey. Beyond these urban centers, a tapestry of villages dotting the landscape awaits exploration.
Maxi Cabs ply the route to Siaha, commencing their journey as early as 6:00 AM and concluding around 7:00 PM upon reaching Siaha.
For those starting their expedition from Siaha towards Phura, a cascade of villages adorn the path, including -
- Amobyuh 'Ch' (also known as Zero Point)
- Kaochao
- New Saikao
- New Laty
- Laty
- Maisa, and
- Pala
These hamlets offer a glimpse into the rural charm and tranquility that define the journey to Phura.
Spanning approximately 90 kilometers from Siaha, the route boasts new roads facilitated by NHDCL and BRTF, ensuring a smoother commute.
However, it's imperative to acknowledge the challenges posed by inclement weather, particularly during the monsoon season.
Amidst the deluge, the journey from Siaha to Phura may extend beyond 7 hours, grappling with the rugged terrain and adverse road conditions.
Nevertheless, ongoing road construction endeavors promise a brighter future for connectivity.
Stepping Foot into Phura Village
Engaging with the Community
Stepping foot into Phura village unveils a mosaic of cultures and languages, with the Mara language dominating communication as the official dialect.
Roughly 70% of the populace converses in Mara, while 28% utilize Mizo, leaving the remaining 2% to converse in various tongues.
For visitors hailing from distant corners of India or abroad, bridging the language barrier entails seeking assistance from educators, particularly those within the middle and high school echelons, proficient in translation services.
Additionally, adept English speakers within the community facilitate seamless communication, ensuring a fulfilling interaction with the locals.
Exploring the Climate
Phura's climate oscillates between extremes, oscillating from scorching summers with temperatures soaring up to 35°C to chilly winters ranging between 10°C to 15°C.
Anticipating the climatic nuances is paramount for travelers planning a sojourn to Phura village.
Equipping oneself with weather-appropriate essentials becomes imperative, whether braving the monsoon downpour with umbrellas and rain boots or embracing the winter chill with layered clothing.
In essence, Phura beckons adventurers with its tranquil charm and cultural richness, promising an immersive journey through the heart of Mizoram's hinterland.
Population and Households
As previously stated, Phura is the fourth-largest village in the Siaha district.
Based on my personal visit to each household on March 2024, it consists of 311 households and a population of 2051, including children.
In the electoral list for the 2024 MP Election, the total number of votes recorded is 857.
Offices, Institutions, and Departments
Phura stands out as one of the most significant villages in Siaha, especially concerning agriculture and related sectors.
Here is a list of offices, institutions, and health centers:
1. Offices
- Agricultural Office (both Government of Mizoram and MADC)
- Department of Forest Office (MADC)
- Soil and Water Conservation Office
- Veterinary Office
- Post Office
- Police Station
- Department of Power and Electricity (33KV Sub Station)
2. Health Centers
- Primary Health Center
- Sub Center
- Aganwadi Center (2 nos)
3. Institutions
According to records found in A Tharu's book, Phura Primary School was founded in 1978, followed by the establishment of the Middle School in 1982.
However, the account of the High School's inception is absent from his book.
Currently, Phura Village has been home to the following schools:
- Government High School (1)
- Government Middle School (1)
- Government Primary School (3)
Additionally, construction is underway for a Mission School.
4. Churches
- ECM Local Church
- CCIM Local Church
- Salemthar Local Church (ECM Mizo Local)
- Baptist Church of Mizoram
- UPC Mizoram Local Church
- UPC North-East Local Church
5. Other Offices and Buildings
- Mara Thyutlia Py, Sub Headquarters Office
- Mara Students' Organization, Sub Headquarters Office
- Mara Chanô Py, Sub Headquarters Office
Where to Spend the Night
At Phura village, there are two comfortable Guest Houses. They are:
- Tourist Lodge (Located at Phura South)
- Forest Guest House (Located at Phura North)
Village Councils
Recently, in 2012, Phura was divided into two Village Councils for better administration of the village.
They are:
- Phura North Village Council
- Phura South Village Council
History of The Evolution of Phura Village
The history of Phura village unveils a tale of transformation and resilience, tracing its roots to the early 20th century.
Unlike its counterparts in the Siaha District, Phura emerged as a young village in official records.
However, its origins can be traced back to 1913, marking the inception of a legacy that endures to this day.
History of Phura Village: Insights From A. Tharu
Machâ A. Tharu holds a pivotal role in preserving the story of Phura. As many eyewitnesses to Phura's establishment have passed away, his account stands as a valuable source of insight.
The book "Palak Pilot Project," authored by Machâ A. Tharu, was unveiled during the Krizyhpa Paw Py (KPP) General Assembly 2024 in Phura, shedding light on the village's genesis.
Join us as we journey through the annals of Phura's history, as chronicled in the written record of the Palak Pilot Project.
1. Forging New Frontiers: The Inception of Phura Village
The narrative begins with Mr. Dyutha informing Mr. Satinvela about the presence of fertile plains suitable for cultivating abundant paddy fields, as recounted of the 'Palak Pilot Project, Phura Khaw Chachin', written by Machâ A. Tharu, a revered figure in Phura's annals.
In those nascent years, the name 'Phura' had yet to permeate the landscape. Mr. Satinvela and his compatriots embarked on a journey to explore the verdant expanse, settling therein for a considerable duration.
However, unforeseen circumstances compelled their eventual departure, marking the initial chapter in Phura's evolution.
Echoes of Phura's primordial wilderness resound through the recollections of the village elders, painting a vivid tableau of an untamed realm cloaked in dense forests.
Here, a myriad of wild denizens, including elephants, tigers, black panthers, and wild pigs, roamed freely, evoking an aura of untamed wilderness.
It was a domain reserved for the intrepid and resilient, where only the boldest dared to tread.
2. The Evolution of Phura Village: A Tale of Transformation
In the narrative woven within the pages of the "Palak Pilot Project" by Machâ A. Tharu, we unearth yet another significant milestone, this time occurring in 1947.
During the pivotal year of 1947, Mr. Hlytha, accompanied by his comrades Ryusia of Kiasie and Valei of Vahia, envisioned cultivating the verdant valley of Phura for paddy cultivation. Initially, they established their settlement just below the present-day Vahia location.
With the burgeoning influx of settlers, they eventually relocated to the area we now know as Phura (although its name had yet to be bestowed).
As chronicled in the book, Mr. Hlytha emerged as a fearless figure, undeterred by the daunting wilderness that characterized Phura at the time.
Inhabited by a plethora of untamed wildlife and devoid of human settlement, Phura stood as a testament to nature's raw majesty. Yet, it was Mr. Hlytha's unwavering courage that paved the path for habitation in this rugged terrain.
Tragically, after four years of resilient endeavor, illness befell Mr. Hlytha, leading to his hospitalization in Akyab (Myanmar), where he ultimately passed away.
In honor of his memory, the villagers erected a tomb resembling a pyramid, known as "Hlytha Phura," giving rise to the name 'Phura.'
Following Mr. Hlytha's demise, only two households remained, prompting their eventual return to their native villages after an additional year, thus leaving Phura once again uninhabited.
3. Introduction of Palak Pilot Project And Establishment of Phura Village
In 1975, the "Palak Pilot Project" was initiated by the North Eastern Council, Government of India, with the Mara Autonomous District Council (MADC) spearheading the endeavor.
Since its inception, MADC has extended invitations to farmers from neighboring villages to settle in Phura for agricultural pursuits.
Initially, farmers primarily from Vahia, Kiasie, Tokalo, and Pala ventured to Phura to commence paddy cultivation.
In homage to Mr. Hlytha's Phura (Hlytha's pyramid tomb), the project was christened 'Phura.'
As interest in cultivation burgeoned, an influx of farmers and cultivators propelled a surge in households and population.
Initially intended solely for agricultural development, the project gradually evolved into a settlement as farmers sought permanent residence for enhanced land management.
With the escalating number of households and population, an Adhoc Local Village Council was established in 1976.
Consequently, the Pilot Project transitioned into a fully-fledged village named "Phura Village" in the same year.
The first Village Council election was formed in 1977.
Brief Summary
| Village | Population | Voters | Household |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phura | 2051 | 857 | 311 |
