NECU hosts talk on forest, identity and sustainability

North East Christian University (NECU), Dimapur, hosted a talk titled “Abundance: Living with a Forest” by noted anthropologist and author Dr. Dolly Kikon on August 19.
According to a press release by NECU, Dr. Kikon began by introducing her short Lotha film, reflecting on the growing disconnect between people and forests, and how forests have increasingly become abstract in modern discourse. She shared that her research journey was inspired by a personal love for foraged food and began with a small project at a Northeast Centre for Language.
She elaborated on her study of the leaf Mhalivo—literally meaning “a leaf that overcrowds”—which grows abundantly in Wokha region. Her encounter with a vegetable vendor at Dimapur’s Supermarket sparked deeper inquiry into the plant’s cultural significance. In Lotha, Mhalivo symbolizes abundance, while in Nagamese, it is referred to as Napa patta, carrying a diminished connotation. This linguistic shift formed the conceptual basis of her film.
The film, which was screened during the session, documents the journey of Lotha forager Zareno in Khumtsü Village and traces the path of foraged food from forest to market in Wokha town. It highlights indigenous foraging practices in the Eastern Himalayas and emphasizes sustainability, tradition, and the human-land relationship amid development pressures.
Dr. Kikon also spoke about the song featured in the film, “E myüngyanti Lotha Meta” (Wonderful Lotha Land), composed and sung by her mother, describing it as “a melancholic chant of memory.”
An interactive discussion followed the screening. Responding to a question by Dr. Kangzang Thou, Dr. Kikon emphasized the role of discipline, community building, and support systems in sustaining her work. Addressing concerns raised by Supongtemsu Longchar on youth unemployment and erosion of traditional systems, she reflected on infrastructural challenges and the importance of teaching values rooted in indigenous practices.
Referencing her earlier work “Leaving the Land: Indigenous Migration and Affective Labour in India”, Dr. Kikon discussed migration trends among Naga youth and called for inclusive infrastructure that ensures affordable healthcare and education. She concluded with a strong message against glorifying wealth in impoverished contexts, urging honest conversations around corruption and inequality.
The session began with an introduction of the speaker by chairperson and IQAC Coordinator, Dr. Chibenthung Yanthan, a welcome address by NECU Pro-Chancellor Prof. Darlando T. Khathing, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Khrielhoumenuo Soukhrie.