L-R: Loly Chophi, Yanbeni Yanthan (Beni Sumer Yanthan), Vishü Rita Krocha and Dr. Vizovono Elizabeth during the panel discussion on “Literary Movements and Genres in Naga Writings”
Morung Express News
Kohima | October 27
The 6th edition of Baptist College Kohima (BCK) Literature Fest was held on Friday, October 27 under the theme ‘Celebrating Creativity for All.’ Addressing the inaugural of the Literature Festival, Dr Kekuchol Pusa, Principal of Baptist College remarked that the very concept of literature is evolving in Nagaland, and that it not only to do with writing but also with oral literature.
Pointing to the emergence of many young writers, scholars, poets, publishers, readers and artists, he said that “Literature is slowly developing in the Naga society,” which, he added is “one good thing about the present scenario as far as literature is concerned.” He expressed pride that the BCK Literature Fest brings together the finest minds in the state of Nagaland and further exuded hope that it would benefit and inspire students while also urging them to make the best use of it.
Giving her remarks on the event, Süvilü Venuh, Assistant Professor, Department of English, Baptist College, Kohima acknowledged the contributions of the initiators who hosted a first-of-its-kind in Nagaland in the year 2016 with the first edition of the BCK Literature Festival under the theme “Sharing Stories”. This, she said, set to motion an event that is now annually organised by the Department of English.
Ever since its inception, she said the primary goal of the Fest has been to provide opportunities and platform for self-expression in creative ways particularly for the students. “The past 5 editions of the Lit Fest had hosted variety of meaningful events such as creative workshops, competitions, author talks, film screening, performances, book fairs, games, etc.”, she said. Highlights of the inaugural session include prayer by Tamreimung Chüsi, Chaplain of Baptist College, Kohima and special appearance by Haithonlo Kath.
As part of the festival, a panel discussion on “Literary Movements and Genres in Naga Writings” was also held with Dr Vizovono Elizabeth, Yanbeni Yanthan (Beni Sumer Yanthan) and Vishü Rita Krocha as the panellists and Loly Chophi as the moderator. The panel threw light on the kind of writings that the new emerging voices from Nagaland are engaging themselves in as well as the kind of literary work that is gaining popularity amongst the readers from Nagaland.
The off stage activities include Poetry Writing Competition with Nosano Kikhi as the Guest Judge and Creative Writing on “Thematic Concerns in Short Story Writing” with Kelhukiesie Savino as the resource person.
A book reading session was also held with Asola C Jamir as the host. Readers who read their work were Yanbeni Yanthan (Beni Sumer Yanthan), Vishü Rita Krocha, Limatoshi Longkumer, Chenenlo Aaron Woch, Imlikokla Jamir, Elongshila Jamir, Loly Chophi and students of Baptist College, Kohima.
Melodies were also presented by the students of the college while the closing act was marked by “Stories on Stage” featuring different semester students, which was followed by prize and certificate distribution and vote of thanks by Dr Sentinaro, HoD, Department of English, Baptist College, Kohima.
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