Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio has called for preservation of Nagas’ tradition of oral literature, manifested through folktales and songs through generations. Inaugurating the first edition of “The White Owl Literature Festival & Book Fair,” Friday at the Plaza Zone Niathu by the Park, Chümoukedima, Rio said, “The tradition of oral literature, manifested through folktales and songs, is a precious legacy that connects us to a time long before the written word emerged.”
He said it was imperative that Nagas cherish and actively engage in the preservation of their oral literature, while reminding that it was through storytelling that Nagas safeguarded their cultural identity.
Referring to the festival’s theme, “Echoes of Narratives,” Rio said the theme resonates deeply with the literary heritage of Nagaland. He said, today, Nagas’ cultural richness finds expression in both oral and written forms, with storytelling being a thread that weaves Nagas into the tapestry of their origins.
The chief minister hoped that the festival would inspire younger Naga generation to read more, write more, and actively contribute to the documentation and preservation of Nagas’ vibrant literary traditions.
Rio also acknowledged the collaboration between The White Owl, Penguin, and Cambridge University Press which has given birth to a literature festival marking a “historic moment” in northeast India.
Reflecting on the growing presence of published writers and authors in Nagaland, Rio said the festival was a significant step towards implementing policies that benefit both avid and budding writers in the region.
Her also commended Viketuno Rio, the festival director, for her dedication to nurturing a community of readers, writers, and thinkers and her efforts in organizing multiple book fairs and connecting with schools and colleges to promote a thriving reading culture in Nagaland.
Acknowledging the participation of people from diverse backgrounds in the festival, Rio hoped that their memorable interaction with Naga writers, intellectuals and the untapped potential of the region would be a bridge across cultures and generations, fostering a deeper appreciation for the written and spoken word.
Delivering a keynote address, poet and writer, Easterine Kire said Naga ancestors were storytellers who passed on “immortal stories” from generations to generations.
Kire, a winner of the Hindu Literary Prize, also deliberated on the role of Naga ancestors as storytellers and carriers of culture. She said today Naga writers are carrying forward the legacy of their ancestors through different medium.
Highlighting the need to preserve storyteller’s authenticity, Kire expressed concern over “intellectualising”, “politicising” and “weaponizing” storytelling/writing. She then urged writers and young generation to trust in their ability and value what they have, and not try to fit in but preserve their originality.
Kire also reminded the audience of the “transformative power” of storytelling, calling it as a seed, therapy, and hope. She then encouraged writers to write stories that offer hope and healing to readers.
The “White Owl Literature Festival and Book Fair” aims to revive a passion for reading and honour the Nagas’ rich storytelling heritage, cherished across generations. The two-day festival and book fair features a diverse range of programmes including author sessions, cultural performance and food stalls.
Earlier delivering a directorial address, Viketuno Iralu Rio said the festival was aimed at promoting reading and fostering a literary community. She underscored the festival’s role as a platform for fostering meaningful connections and stimulating dialogue through panel discussions, workshops, and collaborative initiatives.
Emphasizing on the festival’s theme, Viketuno highlighted its inspiration from the unifying power of stories, both oral and written, rooted in Nagas’ rich tradition of oral literature.