Viswema

Viswema (ˈviswɛmə) is a Southern Angami Naga village in the Kohima District of the Indian state of Nagaland. With a resident population of 7417, it is the second biggest village in the state and is part of the contiguous built-up of the Kohima Metropolitan Area that extends into the neighboring areas of Jakhama, Kigwema and Khuzama in the Southern Angami region, forming the second largest urban agglomerations in Nagaland. Its vast territory also lies across the inter-state boundary in Manipur where notable features including Mount Tempü (Iso) at 9822 feet (2994m) also the highest peak in Manipur, the thick forest of Kezol-tsa and a major portion of the Dzüko Valley is located. Located 22 km south of Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, it is considered to be one of the oldest Tenyimi village with most Chakhesang villages and also many other Angami villages pointing their origin towards Viswema. Traditionally referred to as Viswe–ra, a name given by its historical ancestor Keyho which loosely translates to as ‘A place of people with Virtue and Integrity’. Viswema is also known as Ve-sr-wü–ra by the Chokri Chakhesangs and Shüna–mai by the Ememei Maos. The history of Viswema, according to oral history begins with the founding of Kipizwü, some two km west of the village by Viswe. Viswe was a descendant of Keyho, who migrated from East Asia crossing Burma, Manipur and finally settling in Viswema. The ancestors lived there for several generations till the invasion of the Burmese-Karens, who were known to Viswe–miko as Kherenümi. The defeat inflicted on the Burmese invaders gave a sense of confidence and Viswe–mi became more assertive and grew in great numbers. They began to move out in search of suitable environment for permanent settlement. They therefore came down to the present site of the village. In the past Viswema was known for making fine pottery ware. For any function and rituals earthen pots were purchased from Viswema by neighboring communities. Invasion of the Manipuri armies "It was said that the Manipuris could not subdue Viswema given its large size.