Taitesena
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Pasalṭha Taitesena Khiangte | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Ralthatchhunga |
| Born | January 1882 Khawrihnimah |
| Died | 1904 (aged 21–22) Sehrmun |
| Cause of death | Tiger attack |
| Buried | Sehrmun |
| Known for | Folk hero |
| Spouse | Thangrikhumi |
Pasalṭha Taitesena born Ralthathchhunga was a famous Mizo warrior, hunter, and volunteer. He is considered an idol of Mizo youths for his virtue of Tlawmngaihna.
Taitesena was born in January 1882 as Ralthatchhunga to a Khinagte family. Due to his healthy red cheeks he gained the nickname Taitesena.[1] Taitesena was from Hrangvunga's village of Serhmun which was not far from another famous Pasalṭha known as Khuangchera. After his family moved from Khawrinimah, they would settle in Tuahzawl where Khuangchera would be established with his wife and two children.[2]
Pasaltha
One night, Hrangvunga, the chief wished to discover who was the bravest, loyal, dependable and selfless man among his subjects. He summoned an upa and told him to visit the zawlbuk to tell the men that an important message has to be sent for his brother across the river. The urgency of the message required it to be done despite the dark of the night and heavy rain. Hrangvunga himself doubted any men would take on the favour but persisted in trying.[3]
The upa was not told the message but only to find a man to be summoned for the request. The upa left to the zawlbuk and woke up the young men to convey the chief's request. No one was ready to go so late at night in heavy rain where wild animals may lurk. Taitsena who was sleeping in one of the corners already got up and adorned his garments. Walking back with the upa, Taitesena questioned what the message was which the upa could not answer as he didn't know either. Taitesena was instructed to speak to the chief in confidence.[3]
When Taitesena arrived at Hrangvunga's residence, he asked for the errand. Hrangvunga revealed that there was no need for an errand tonight. Due to threats and enemies, Hrangvunga wanted to know who he could depend on for trust. Hrangvunga invited Taitesena for a drink of zu. Taitesena initially refused, considering the chief's rest and sleep during a late night. This consideration further impressed the chief. Hrangvunga insisted Taitesena to drink. They both drank and gossiped the night as an honour a chief very rarely bestows.[3] Taitesena would often receive such an honor but he would be disciplined never to intoxicate himself or indulge in mischief.[4]
Taitesena was famed for his ethical code. He was reputed for never complaining or expressing anger. During hunts in the jungle he would never take more than three spoons of rice at the astonishment of others. Taitesena also excelled in Mizo sports such as javelin throw, shotput and wrestling.[5]