I speak because my ancestors once did—storytelling is my inheritance. I pray these books reach the hands they are destined for.” – Ningreichon Tungshang.
Human rights activist Ningreichon Tungshang adds a new voice to her journey—that of a storyteller. Her debut children’s books, Tetimola and The Story of Mathā, are published by StoryWeavers and Keepers. These illustrated children’s books gently tell stories of kindness and faith inviting young readers into kindness, compassion and belief. Launched in New Delhi on December 27, 2025, the books were unveiled by Dr. Vieo Pou, a distinguished Naga scholar and author of Waiting for the Dust to Settle.
Dr. Pou highlighted storytelling as a vital means of tracing and safeguarding culture in an ever-changing world. He stressed the importance of creating meaningful reading materials for children—stories that help them connect with their parents and make sense of the world around them. Referring to The Story of Mathā, he noted how the book beautifully weaves cultural and biblical contexts, making it accessible even to children born and raised in cities like Delhi. At a time when many children are increasingly disconnected from their cultural roots, Dr. Pou emphasised the need to encourage more people to write. “We must tell stories,” he said.
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Tetimola and The Story of Mathā are published by StoryWeavers and Keepers, a platform dedicated to creating and retelling meaningful stories. The books are beautifully illustrated by Chuileng Muivah. Tetimola helps young readers understand how unkind actions can lead to sorrow, while kindness brings warmth and harmony. The Story of Mathā, inspired by the biblical tale of David and Goliath, encourages children to believe in courage, hope and faith when facing challenges.
The official launch event was moderated by Rinsit Vashum. Rev. Ramkhaning Tungshang, Pastor of Dwarka Community Church, offered the opening grace, while Jimmy Raman, Associate Pastor of Tangkhul Church Delhi, invoked blessings for the books. Young readers Urayin Psalm Kamodang, Saiyairi Kapai, Daskh Rawat and Lydia Ngashangva delighted the audience by reading their favourite lines from the two books.
Reflecting on her first children’s books, Ningreichon Tungshang said at the launch, “Storytelling has always lived within me—it is a gift passed down by the women in my family. Tetimola is especially close to my heart; it is a story I grew up hearing, yet one that was never written down. Being able to give it a written form and share it with the world fills me with joy. With The Story of Mathā, I imagined how the story of David and Goliath might unfold in my own village, within my own cultural landscape. Reimagining it through familiar contexts felt deeply personal.”
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Concluding her remarks, Tungshang shared, “I speak because my ancestors once did. Storytelling is my inheritance. I hope these books find their way to those they are meant for.”
The event was attended by Ningreichon Tungshang’s family, close friends and her well-wishers. The books can be availed from Story Weavers and Keepers. Follow them on Instagram.