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After More Than 100 Years, Oxford Returns Remains of 39 Naga Ancestors to Nagaland

After More Than 100 Years, Oxford Returns Remains of 39 Naga Ancestors to Nagaland

Bavana Guntha
November 11, 2026

In a historic moment for the Naga community, the University of Oxford has returned the ancestral remains of 39 Naga people that had been kept at its Pitt Rivers Museum for more than a century, paving the way for their final journey home to Nagaland.

The remains were formally handed over to the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and the Naga Tribe Hoho during a ceremony at the museum on Monday. The transfer marks a significant step towards addressing the legacy of colonial-era collections and restoring the community's right to honour its ancestors.

The transfer of title document was signed by Pitt Rivers Museum Director Professor Laura Van Broekhoven and FNR representative Rev Dr Wati Aier. The ceremony was witnessed by Visier Sanyu, representing the FNR, and Thejao Vihienuo on behalf of the Naga Tribe Hoho.

Following the handover, the remains were moved from the University of Oxford to begin their journey to Nagaland.

Oxford Vice-Chancellor Professor Irene Tracey described the occasion as a historic moment in the relationship between the university and the Naga people. She said the initiative reflected a community-led effort towards reconciliation, healing and peace.

Speaking at the ceremony, Sanyu recalled the violence inflicted on Naga communities during British colonial rule, including the burning of his own village by colonial forces. Highlighting the importance of forgiveness, he quoted late Naga peace activist Niketu Iralu: "Hate not transformed is transferred".

Thejao Vihienuo, president of the Angami Public Organisation, said the return of the remains represented the Naga people's right to care for their ancestors. He also called for the return of all Naga ancestral remains held in museums to their homeland with dignity.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the burial of the remains at Naga Solidarity Park in Kohima. A designated site has been allocated within the park, and a prayer service has already marked the beginning of preparatory work.