Ziona Chana, a man who was believed to be the father of the biggest family in the world, has died at the age of 76 years old.
Chana was the leader of a Christian religious sect named Chana Pawl that allowed polyamory for men. It was formed in 1942 by Chana’s grandfather and approximately, it has 2,000 followers.
He was reported to have at least 89 children, 36 grandchildren, and 38 wives. He married his first and oldest wife when he was 17.
The sorrowful news was confirmed by the chief minister of Mirozam, Zoramthanga in his tweet on Monday.
“With heavy heart, #Mizoram bid farewell to Mr. Zion-a (76), believed to head the world’s largest family, with 38 wives and 89 children,” Zoramthanga wrote. “Mizoram and his village at Baktawng Tlangnuam has become a major tourist attraction in the state because of the family.”
“Rest in Peace Sir,” Zoramthanga added.
Chana fell sick in his home in his village of Baktawng Tlangnuam and was pronounced dead at a hospital. The causes of his death were hypertension and diabetes.
Chana’s family has become a global tourist attraction. People from all around the world travelled to their village to see the spacious four-story house with over 100 rooms inside.
Chana’s unique and massive family has been featured twice in “Ripley’s Believe It or Not”.
Sources: The Federal, Insider