Aizawl, Mizoram, India: Zion-a Chana, the man from Mizoram believed to head the world’s largest family with at least 39 wives and 94 children and 33 grandchildren, died on Sunday at the age 76.
Taking to Twitter, Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga on Sunday bid farewell to him.
“With heavy heart, Mizoram bid farewell to Mr. Zion-a (76), believed to head the world’s largest family. Mizoram and his village at Baktawng Tlangnuam has become a major tourist attraction in the state because of the family. Rest in Peace Sir!” he tweeted along with a group picture of the huge family.
Zion-a, whose name is also spelled Ziona, featured in Ripley’s Believe It or Not in 2011 and 2013 for having the world’s largest family.
He reportedly lived with his family in a large 100-room, four-storey building.
“Zion-a was suffering from diabetes and hypertension. He was undergoing treatment at his residence in Baktawng village for three days. But his condition deteriorated and he was rushed to the hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead,” Hospital Director Dr Lalrintluanga Zahau was quoted as saying.
Zion-a was the leader of Chana Pawl or Chhuanthar, a sect formed by his grandfather Khuangtuaha after he was expelled from Hmawngkawn village in 1942. Since then, his family lives in Baktawng village,around 55 km from Aizawl. Khuangtuaha was succeeded by his son Chana, who was the father of Zion-a, reports said.
Around 400 families are members of the sect that allows polygamy for its male members.
