The Department of English, Norman Putsure College, Chümoukedima organized its inaugural Lecture Series 01 on March 15, under the theme “Echoes of the Past: The Role and Revival of Folk Literature in Modern Society.”
Dr. Inakali Assumi, an esteemed author, researcher, and educator, served as the resource speaker for the event. Dr. Assumi’s lecture opened with the narration of two Sumi folk tales, each carrying a profound moral lesson about the cycle of life—originating from nature and ultimately returning to it. She highlighted those folk narratives were not merely for entertainment but serve as a vessel for ancestral wisdom.
She also emphasized the importance of indigenous knowledge and the need to reconnect with nature. “Naga folk songs are distinctive, imbued with a rhythmic, chant-like essence, as they draw deep inspiration from nature”, she added. Assumi mentioned that these songs and tales were not just artistic expressions but also means of imparting moral values and life lessons, through them, history and traditions were preserved and passed down.
She also pointed out that colonial intervention disrupted and distorted cultural identity to such an extent that documentation became an urgent necessity. The need to cherish and embrace one’s heritage is crucial, yet the challenge remains—the last living custodians of these traditions are vanishing before proper documentation can be completed.
Dr. Assumi urged a conscious effort to “rethink our choices” in order to revive folk literature. She stressed that reclaiming one’s cultural identity requires a deep appreciation of one’s roots. Firsthand cultural knowledge is invaluable in this process.
During the lecture, she also read an excerpt from her novel voices from the forgotten village, reinforcing the idea that they are the custodians of their culture, traditions, and narratives, and it is the responsibility to preserve them for future generations.
The session was chaired by Bwenlo Mesung, BA 6th semester followed by Tsukian Lamheing with a folktale narration. HoD, Department of English, Dr. Kevibeinuo Nguzhülie, delivered a brief introduction to the Lecture Series and the resource speaker.
The note of gratitude was delivered by assistant professor, Department of English
Dorothy Z Khalo, and the session culminated with students gaining the knowledge of theory and praxis on the significance of preserving the culture and tradition of one’s own community.
In a separate programme, the 2nd semester students of Norman Putsure College organized skill development class at the Sovima Campus on March 15. The students had a first hand experience on horticulture under the expert guidance of Neibu and her team.
The objective of the “Skill Class” focused on the importance of subsistence and organic farming which is a prerequisite for their survival and healthy living. The students were taught practically where they had to till the land, segregate the stones from the soil as well as fertilise the soil.
They planted various crops and with necessary nurturing by the students, the produce would be harvested by the students themselves. The students participated actively and learned about the basics of organic farming.