Minister for geology & mining and border affairs, Mmhonlumo Kikon, on Saturday, has said that there was a need to promote more Naga writers to create a body of knowledge in Naga literature.
Speaking at the release of “Woven Words”—a collection of women’s poetry—penned by the department of English, Kohima College Kohima at Heritage Old DC Bungalow Kohima, Mmhonlumo encouraged Naga writers to work hard and produce more literature.
He asked them to write more and carry forward the voice of the people, history, expression and inspiration through their writings.
Mmhonlumo said the writers should also challenge the politicians, leaders and the public through their constructive write-ups. He however cautioned them of negative impact of destructive write-ups.
The minister said he was inspired by “Woven Words” and appreciated the efforts of the department saying, it was the right book published at the right time as it reflects the present society in many aspects.
Mmhonlumo also said that poets and politicians are similar in many ways; according to him both represent the voices of extremities.
Introducing the book “Woven Words” to the gathering, associate professor and head of department (English) Kohima College, Moanungla Kevichusa, said the book comprise of 64 poems.
She said the poems were not written in particular style and that each poem has an evocative story to tell.
Kevichusa said the exercise of writing poetry has proven beneficial for the fraternity of English department and challenged other colleges to plan out such programme in their respective colleges.
Heritage Publication Dimapur, publisher of the “Woven Words”, Dr. Asangla Tzudir, described the poems as “refreshing” and that various pieces would find resonance in the young minds.
The programme was chaired by assistant professor department of English Kohima College, Dr. Avinuo Kire; invocation prayer was said by KABA, Pastor Temjen Sempo, special song was presented by Tutu Terhuja 3rd semester English honours, poetry recitation read by Khriezenuo Vizo, C. Vezholu Kotso, Sungjeminla , Theyiesinuo Keditsu and Emisenla Jamir all assistant professor of Kohima College Kohima.