Nagaland: Irish-Naga Book Exchange held in Kohima

The Irish-Naga Book Exchange was held at “the Book home ” Billy Graham Road Kohima , organized by Penthrill Publication which fostered a dialogue on culture, literature, and shared heritage.
During a short conversation ,Ireland’s Ambassador to India, Kevin Kelly, reflected that their experiences in Nagaland for the past few days had been “an inspiration .” He expressed being both “baffled and overwhelmed” to see the people of Nagaland celebrating their cultural identity without hesitation —a unique display of unity.
He noted that young people in Nagaland carry a pronounced pride in their culture, unlike in Ireland, where he felt Westernization often overshadows local identity, suggesting there is much to learn from Nagaland.
Ambassador Kelly also touched on Ireland’s deep literary tradition, affirming that “literature won’t die,” even as digital technology advances but it is certainly taking some effect. Discussing peace, he referenced the Good Friday Agreement, also known as the Belfast Agreement, a peace treaty signed on April 10, 1998, that ended decades of conflict in Northern Ireland known as “The Troubles”.
The agreement between the British and Irish governments and most political parties in Northern Ireland, established a new power-sharing government, cross-border institutions, and respect for the constitutional status of Northern Ireland, allowing it to be part of the UK or Ireland based on a referendum
Noting that “a perfect solution is not possible” but mutual understanding and respecting each other’s opinion plays a big role, he also highlighted the vital role women played in securing the peace treaty , a role which was not recognised.
Professor and historian Jane Ohlmeyer shared her amazement at witnessing 17 Naga tribes come together—a sight she said would be transformative in Ireland, where such tribal unity is uncommon. She praised the extraordinary diversity and passion for literature, folklore, and tradition, calling the event “the beginning of a relationship.”
Emphasizing the value of academic freedom—something she holds dear—Ohlmeyer stressed that academics and creative voices “should not be shut.” Drawing from her work on empire and early modern history, she pointed out that after decades of conflict, political settlements alone are insufficient. Lasting peace requires cultural settlement, addressing identity issues, building mutual respect, and educating children together.
The Ambasador also affirmed support for future collaborations with Nagaland’s Literature Festival in 2026 and other exchange program and also highlighted a possible exploration of a Hornbill Festival chapter in Ireland.
They also highlighted opportunities for expanded music collaboration and other schemes between the two cultures.
The program was followed by exchanging of books by the Irish delegates and Naga writers exchanging their books.