Tura, May 24: “Because We Did Not Choose”, a documentary by Wanphrang Diengdoh, was hosted at the District Auditorium in Tura on Saturday. The event, organized by the Joint NGOs Forum, Mother’s Union and Senior Citizens brought to light the largely forgotten contributions of indigenous communities from Northeast India, especially Meghalaya, to the First World War.

The documentary is the culmination of four years of extensive research and filming across Europe and India, supported by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, The Goethe-Institute, and the Government of Meghalaya.

The documentary delves into the untold stories of indigenous labour corps from Northeast India who were recruited by the British during World War I. Among them were the Garo Labour Corps, whose service and sacrifices in foreign lands have largely faded from mainstream historical discourse. The Tura screening aimed to rectify this oversight, fostering greater historical awareness, especially among the youth.

A highlight of the event was a live video conference with Wanphrang Diengdoh, which revolved around history, memory, identity, and representation. This interactive session provided profound insights into the lives and sacrifices of these indigenous communities during the war.

The screening also served as a cultural act of remembrance for the Garo Labour Corps, particularly in response to the recent demolition of their memorial cenotaph in Tura.

The event drew a diverse audience of history enthusiasts, students, and community members, all eager to learn and understand their crucial history and safeguard the memory of these forgotten heroes.

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