Delhi: In what can be called an intellectual stimulation and enriching event, the Tangkhul Naga Society Delhi joined forces with the Tangkhul Scholars Association in Delhi to organise the Tangkhul Literature Festival on September 16, at Rajdhani College, Delhi University.
The festival was organised under the theme ‘Tangkhul tui kala Wortam,’ meaning Tangkhul language and literature, with participants engaging in a discourse on the knowledge repository embedded in Tangkhul Tui (Language) and the urgency of re-enforcing and re-building Tangkhul literature, that defines the history and identity of the Tangkhul society. With two sessions marking the festival, Laasem (Poem) recitations, paper presentations and discussion hours were the main highlights of the day. The event began with a welcome note from Dr Mirinchonme Mahongnao, Secretary TSA.
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A paper presentation on “Tangkhul Tuiyan kala Tangkhul Tui Ngacham kakhui” was made by Dr Yuimirin Kapai. Dr AC Kharingpam presented on “Mirin Kalarangayot: Tangkhul Wordham wui Mirin Teomeikha” and Dr Tuisem Ngakang also presented a paper titled: “Tangkhul Wortam li Kanrei Shaiza na Yanta mikahai Sharuk.”
The second session of the fest commenced with poem recitations written by two renowned Tangkhul poets Sanamla Ragui and Major Bob Khathing Ralengnao. This session had a presentations from Worso Zimik, Pamyo Chamroy, Shaokhai Mayirnao on “Ain kala Wortam wui Khangashik,” “Laa hi Channa, Chan hi Laana,” and “Longshim kashiman eina ngasoda khimamei Shiman haokhala?” respectively.
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From exploring the wealth of Tangkhul grammar to how its descriptive and prescriptive usage can enrich Tangkhul literature, to analysing the transition of literature from oral to written by delving into the pioneering works of Kanrei Shaiza, on to dissecting the meaning and history of language and literature and their relevance in the formation of civilizations, the paper presentations were completely enlightening, and fostered a sense of urgency in rebuilding the Tangkhul literature.
The essence of literature was also explored though the dynamic exchange of ideas in paper presentations that covered the relationship of Law and Literature, songs and literature vis-a-vis folksongs, and a critical analysis of the disappearance of Longshim. Another critical element of the Festival was a deliberation on the nuances of standardising Tangkhul Tui.
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The festival saw a resounding success graced by the presence of Prof. Yaruingam Awungshi as the Chief guest and attendance of many literature enthusiasts from different walks of life. A sumptuous afternoon meal added a layer of togetherness and community essence to the festival. The festival ended on a high note with a vote of thanks from Dr Franky Varah, General Secretary TNSD.