Geoffrey Yaden and Jungmayangla Longkumer releasing the two books on June 14.
Morung Express News
Dimapur | June 14
"Naga Notes" and "Haiku for me" authored by Jungmayangla Longkumer were formally released today by Geoffrey Yaden, Proprietor, Publisher & Editor of Nagaland Post at Niu Kuda Inn. The two books mark the 104th and 105th publications of PenThrill.
Speaking at the launch, Jungmayangla Longkumer, who is currently a Professor in the department of Agricultural Extension Education, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus remarked that the journey of the book, "Naga Notes" started with Geoffrey Yaden. She recalled in her Author Talk that, "it was in the early nineties, that I had come to Dimapur from Shillong where I grew up; in search of work and to while away the time in between I used to write articles."
She was introduced to Nagaland Post, which was a weekly newspaper then by her friend, Sentila Longkumer Stillions, who is now settled in the US.
"Geoffrey Yaden accepted my typed manuscript and that is how I began writing for Nagaland Post as a freelance writer", she recalled. For giving her the space and freedom to write on any topic, she acknowledged Geoffrey Yaden for "the opportunity to a wanna be writer."
In her introduction to the book, the author had also mentioned that, "these articles and stories are old, written almost twenty years back." However, she said that, "some of the narratives are still relatable and may strike a chord here and there" while adding that, "I enjoyed writing these pieces and most of them were published in Nagaland Post, as well as a few stories in Nagaland Page" for which, she also thanked Monalisa Changkija.
She further highlighted that the Haiku that she wrote took many years to be refined although the section "Haiku for the Pot makers" was published in 2010 in her book titled, "Pottery: Earth Stories."
"God knows what is best for me and I believe that by opening this door for me after all these years, God is preparing me for my retirement which will happen very soon. At least now I have a plan; to write more books and poetry", she added.
Addressing the launch, Geoffrey Yaden, Proprietor, Publisher & Chief Editor of Nagaland Post remarked that the author was very clear in her approach, and was frank and honest in her writings that were published several years ago during which Nagaland was also caught up in the turbulent period. He commended her for very well managing to put it in a way that is serious but also funny at the same time and doing a wonderful job out of it.
He further wished her well and exuded hope that she continues to churn out more and more and wished her further success.
Voice of ‘legacy & originality'
Stating that the voice of Jungmayangla Longkumer, carries both legacy and originality, Vishü Rita Krocha, Publisher, PenThrill Publication House said that many would recognise the name "Longkumer" that is synonymous with literary excellence, a legacy left behind by her late mother, Padma Shri Temsula Ao.
"It is hardly surprising that her daughter is a writer herself, but one thing that stood out for me is that both their writings are distinctly different", she noted while acknowledging the author's distinct voice, her own unique narrative, and the undeniable brilliance of her craft.
Talking about her association with the author, she also expressed that, "as I followed her journey, I saw the depth of her storytelling unfold." She said that "Naga Notes" not only explores heritage and introspection but also carries a rare gem—Naga humor, the kind that will instantly resonate with Nagas, a subtle wit embedded in lived experiences while for outsiders, it offers a delightful glimpse into the nuances of Naga culture—an introduction to a world of humor that is both surprising and deeply amusing.
Her other book, "Haiku for Me" she also highlighted, "showcases Jungmayangla’s versatility as a writer" while pointing out that "In just a few carefully chosen words, her haiku distills emotion, thought, and experience into poetic precision."
"To move from cultural reflections to the brevity of haiku is no small feat—it is a testament to her range as a storyteller, capable of weaving both expansive narratives and delicate poetic moments with equal finesse", she said.
Highlights of the event included invocation by Prof. Razouneinuo Zuyie, SAS: NU, Medziphema Campus, Reviews on the books by Dr. Maongkala Longchar, Assoc. Prof., Dimapur Govt. College, Special number by Limasanen Aonok while the programme was chaired by Prof. Malini B Sharma, SAS: NU, Medziphema Campus.
