Kohima: The documentary film Prophetic Homecoming premiered Sunday at The Lighthouse Church in Dimapur. It follows the decades-long journey to bring home the remains of Naga National Council leader Venyiyi Rhakho. Rhakho attended the 1975 Shillong Accord negotiations but rejected the final pact. He was assassinated in 1979. His family eventually repatriated his remains to his native village in 2004.
Director Dr. Talilula began the project in 2022 after researching the return of Phushe Venuh. Her team also uncovered archival details on the 2009 repatriation of Mayang Ao. The film argues that these acts are not foreign concepts, but deep-rooted Naga traditions. These efforts were entirely community-led, organized, and self-funded.
A panel discussion followed the screening. Dezoto Rhakho, the son of the late leader, shared the family's struggle. His father’s return was guided by a 1986 prophecy urging forgiveness. He told the audience, "Certainly did not happen overnight." Forgiveness requires constant, active choices. It does not mean the past was acceptable.
Dezoto remains committed to the cause. He called his family's reconciliation nothing short of a miracle. He urged other families still awaiting the remains of loved ones to maintain faith. The film was a partnership between Recover, Restore and Decolonise and Dezoto Rhakho. The production crew included Veroli Zhimo, Küvethilü Thülüo, Bendangtoshi Longkumer, Samuel Seb Rengma, Kekhriesilie, and Arien Jamir.
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