Dr Tssikhenthung Kithan launches memoir on his journey from Nagaland to the UK

DIMAPUR, MARCH 30 (MExN): Dr Tssikhenthung Kithan’s memoir, My Life Journey: From Akuk Village Nagaland to England UK, was officially released by Nagaland MLA and Adviser for Agriculture Mhathung Yanthan at a ceremony held at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur.

Speaking at the launch, Yanthan recalled first hearing about Dr. Kithan as a schoolboy in Wokha, describing him as a pioneer from Akuk village who not only became a doctor but also made his way to the United Kingdom to practice medicine. “His journey is proof that no dream is too distant, no goal too ambitious,” Yanthan said.

In a virtual review of the book, Paul Pimomo, Emeritus Professor of English at Central Washington University, described Dr Kithan as a gifted storyteller with an extraordinary ability to recall life’s events in vivid detail. Pimomo noted that the memoir highlights the importance of personal integrity and community, pointing to Dr. Kithan’s role in founding the Naga People’s Association in the UK while balancing professional and personal challenges.

Dr Kithan, now in his eighties, said his memoir serves as a bridge between generations, offering insight into growing up in Nagaland during the 1950s and 1960s amid socio-political turmoil. He recounted his journey from village life to earning an MBBS through a government quota, serving in the Nagaland Medical Service before moving to the UK, where he worked as a National Health Service doctor for 38 years.

Publisher Lanusangla Tzudir emphasized the significance of memoirs in historical documentation, stating that Dr. Kithan’s story is one of resilience and self-determination. “He has planted a flag that no one can remove by telling his story in his own voice,” she said. The launch event was chaired by Moalemla Aier, with a dedicatory prayer offered by Rev. Bryn John, Pastor of Bethel Bible Church, Dimapur.