“A Tribute to Chau Khouk Manpoong on His 100th Birthday”
By-Chau Siharaja Chautang
NAMSAI,Mar 30: Today, we celebrate not just a birthday, but a century of an extraordinary life; a life devoted to knowledge, service, culture, and the enduring spirit of the Tai Khamti people.
Chau Khouk Manpoong, a name etched in the golden pages of our history, stands tall as a living legend. Born on 30th March 1926, he rose from humble beginnings in the then Sadiya Frontier Tract to become the first post graduate of erstwhile NEFA, a remarkable achievement at a time when access to education itself was a challenge.
His journey of learning took him through Sadiya Government High School, Cotton College, St. Edmund’s College, Shillong, and finally to Delhi University, where he completed his Master’s degree in History in 1959. This pursuit of knowledge was not for personal gain, but for a larger purpose – to uplift his people and contribute meaningfully to society.
Beginning his career as a teacher, he soon entered administrative service, serving with dedication from 1961 to 1974 as Assistant Political Officer and in various key roles. Yet, his calling for direct public service led him to step into politics. As the elected representative of the undivided 23-Namsai-Chowkham (ST) Assembly Constituency (1980–1984), he worked tirelessly for development in a time marked by hardship and limited resources.
But perhaps his most profound legacy lies in the cultural and literary renaissance of the Tai Khamti community.
It was Chau Manpoong who revived and reformed the nearly obsolete Tai Khamti script, transforming it into a modern, accessible, and printable form – eventually paving the way for its digitization. His visionary efforts ensured that the script was not only preserved but brought into classrooms, with structured teaching introduced in schools.
He authored the first book in the reformed script—“Shon Mau Tai” (1993), which became a foundational textbook for generations. His contributions also include the development of a Tai Khamti–English–Assamese dictionary, further strengthening linguistic bridges.
As the founder Honorary General Secretary of the Tai Literature Committee, he has worked relentlessly for the preservation and promotion of language, literature, performing arts, and cultural identity. The introduction of Tai Khamti language programs in All India Radio during his tenure as MLA remains another landmark achievement.
His lifelong dedication has been widely recognized, including the International Brotherhood Mission Grand Award of Honour (2004) and the Life Time Achievement Award by Tai Khamti Development Society (2021).
Yet, beyond all titles and recognitions, what truly defines him is his simplicity, humility, and unwavering commitment. Even at 100, he continues to inspire – living a quiet life in Manmow village, mentally strong, ever thoughtful, and still eager to contribute.
As his nephew (sister’s son), I feel immense pride and deep emotion in witnessing this remarkable milestone. He is not just a pillar of our family, but a guiding light for generations – a bridge between the past and the future of our people.
On this historic occasion of his 100th birthday, we bow our heads in respect and gratitude.
May his life continue to inspire, and may his legacy live on forever.
