CHANDEL: In a first-of-its-kind literary event in Chandel, Wisecrabs, in collaboration with Eden Book-Cafe, organised an engaging Book Talk-cum-Book Signing featuring acclaimed author, poet, historian, and public intellectual Mmhonlümo Kikon, author of His Majesty’s Headhunters: The Siege of Kohima That Shaped World History (Penguin Random House India).
Kikon’s work explores the history, cultures, and political traditions of Northeast India. Besides His Majesty’s Headhunters, he has authored three collections of poetry. A former legislator and public policy practitioner, he is widely recognised for his writings on indigenous history, identity, governance, and historical memory. He is currently researching the history of Christianity and the making of modern Naga society while continuing to write and speak extensively on the region’s history, literature, and contemporary public affairs.
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The conversation, moderated by Ts Mhanthung Anal, President of Wisecrabs, extended far beyond the subject of Kikon’s latest book. The discussion evolved into a stimulating exchange on the importance of reading and writing, research and documentation, geopolitical realities, identity politics, and the role of intellectual inquiry in shaping society.
During the interactive session, Kikon responded thoughtfully to questions from the audience and expressed his appreciation for their enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity. The insightful questions reflected a genuine eagerness to learn and engage with ideas, making the discussion both lively and meaningful.
The programme drew an impressive audience comprising community leaders, educators, research scholars from Manipur University, college students, civil society members, and literary enthusiasts. Among those present were David Boyes and Muidou Makunga, whose participation further enriched the discussions.
According to Wisecrabs, the objective of organising such programmes is to create a platform where ideas are exchanged, knowledge is shared, and minds are inspired. The club believes that interactions with scholars, writers, and thinkers help strengthen intellectual capacities and contribute meaningfully to the growth of society.
Wisecrabs expressed its sincere gratitude to Mmhonlümo Kikon for graciously accepting the invitation despite his busy schedule. The club also conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the proprietors of Little Ones Kindergarten, Rev. Sng Nelson and Ms. Lk. Villy Kiho, for generously providing the venue for the event. Special thanks were extended to Eden Book-Cafe for facilitating the availability of books and providing logistical support.
The organisers also acknowledged the participants who travelled from Imphal, Manipur University, Pallel, and various parts of Chandel district to attend the programme. Their enthusiastic participation and thoughtful engagement contributed significantly to the success of the event.
Wisecrabs Executive Member Miss Ts. Newry was also appreciated for arranging healthy and delicious refreshments for all participants.
The organisers noted that the programme was entirely self-sponsored, without any external financial assistance or sponsorship. It was made possible solely through the collective commitment and dedication of the Wisecrabs team. The club expressed confidence that such intellectual engagements would continue to enrich society and play an important role in placing Chandel on a broader academic and literary map.
