UKHRUL: The Department of English at St. Joseph College, Ukhrul, observed World Book Day on Monday organized in collaboration with Prologue Bookstore and Library. The event aimed to ignite a passion for reading and foster a new generation of writers within the community.
Lum Shaiza and Worngachan Shatsang, the founder and co-founder of Prologue Bookstore and Library led the session as resource persons.
In a candid discussion regarding the current literary landscape of Tangkhul society, the duo pointed out a significant concern: the scarcity of local authors.
They emphasized that while the community has a rich oral tradition and unique stories to tell, the number of published writers remains limited. Shaiza and Shatsang issued a stirring call to action, urging students to move from being passive readers to active contributors.
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“We need more voices to emerge from our own soil,” they stated, encouraging students to document their experiences and contribute to the expanding body of local literature.
Teresa Kashung, a participant, reflected on how the session shifted her perspective on storytelling. “It made me realize that I should be proud of my own lifestyle,” Kashung shared. “I should write my own story that comes from my heart itself.”
Beyond the academic discussions, the college campus transformed into a lively hub of activity. The event featured Pop-up Bookstores, Stationery Stalls and Food Stalls.
The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among the students of the English Department, many of whom left motivated to pick up a book to read and pen to write and share their unique perspectives with the world.