Archaeologists in Mizoram have unearthed human skeletal remains dating back over 700 years, in what experts say could radically shift the timeline of Mizo history. The discovery, announced by INTACH on Tuesday, was made in a secluded cave within Thingkhuang forest in Saitual district, where nine skulls, femurs, and other bones were recovered alongside ancient tools and pottery.
Carbon dating in the U.S. places the remains between 1260 and 1320 CE, making them the oldest ever found in Mizoram—nearly 200 years older than the Vangchhia findings of 1485 CE. “This shatters existing theories that the Mizos entered the region only around 1700 CE,” said Rin Sanga, Convenor of INTACH’s Mizoram chapter.
Researchers say the find offers “an unprecedented window into Mizoram’s ancient past,” with DNA studies and lineage analysis now planned. Experts believe the results could reshape narratives of human migration and cultural development in Northeast India.
