Motherhood; Honouring the women who shape our lives

As the world pauses to celebrate Mother’s Day, stories of resilience, love, and unwavering faith emerge from women whose lives embody the true essence of motherhood. More than a role, motherhood is a testament to courage, sacrifice, and deep-rooted strength — especially among those who have mothered not just their children, but entire communities through example and grace.

This year, the spotlight falls on three remarkable women from Nagaland who continue to redefine motherhood in unique and powerful ways.
Nagaland Post spoke exclusively with them whose lives reflect the extraordinary resilience, love, and faith that define what it means to be a mother.

Raising a family alone: Alila’s story of strength and grace
Alila, a 64-year-old widow from Dimapur, shared the deeply personal journey of raising her children alone after the early death of her husband. “I had to be both mother and father,” she said. Despite the many challenges, she finds joy in seeing her children grow into responsible, caring adults.

Now a grandmother, Alila lives a peaceful life surrounded by her family. Her wish is that her children and grandchildren remember her for the love she poured into them, and continue to live with kindness, wisdom, and patience. “In my darkest moments, it was God who gave me strength,” she shared, acknowledging her deep-rooted faith as her guiding force.

Finding purpose through faith and food: Monika’s journey as a momo vendor
For Monika Urang, 54, faith and determination have shaped her path as a single mother and food vendor. For over 30 years, Monika has supported her two children by selling momos, a journey that began with a simple yet powerful thought: “If other people’s momos can sell, why can’t mine?”

Initially unfamiliar with the dish, Monika learned the trade after her late husband introduced her to it. Today, she credits her unshakable belief in God for helping her achieve her daily goals, even when times were hard. “Since I found my faith, I’ve never had a bad day,” she said. Despite past struggles and the challenge of educating her children alone, Monika continues to move forward, grounded in divine love.

Motherhood beyond sight: Vikili Assumi’s vision of faith
Visually impaired mother and TIKVAH Centre proprietor, Vikili Assumi, exemplifies courage through adversity. Despite her condition, she embraced motherhood with open arms and has independently raised her son with love and determination.

“As he grew older and understood that I was blind, he began guiding me and admiring me for what I do,” Vikili recalled. Her unwavering faith, she said, has carried her through the challenges of parenting without sight. “God’s love gives me strength. No difficulty can overshadow happiness.”

Vikili encouraged all mothers to open their hearts to God, believing that His presence strengthens families and communities. In a special message to fathers, she added, “Don’t forget to wish the mothers in your lives. Love them, pray for them — they’re waiting to be acknowledged.”