Beyond the Banyan Tree – an autobiography of T. Kikon, a former minister, was released by former chief minister and incumbent president of Naga People’s Front (NPF), Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu Friday at De Oriental Grand Hotel, Kohima.
Kikon, who was six-time member of Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA), said it took him several years to pen the autobiography as he referred his life events from his dairies dating back to late 1940s.
The octogenarian explained that the autobiography was titled “Beyond the Banyan Tree” because it talked about the protagonist stepping out of the familiar village life to a new world, which opened up for Nagas at that point of time.
The author, one of the four ex-Interim Body Members (IBM) from Lotha community, said he lived a full life and that his autobiography was a token of gratitude to God for giving him an opportunity to serve the people.
In his speech, Dr. Shürhozelie said the autobiography would remain a “historical book” for the Nagas as the book give an insight to six-seven decades life of a public leader. He also lauded the author for penning the book at an advanced age.
Dr. Shürhozelie also said that the autobiography along with three other previous books by the author would make an immense contribution in promoting literature in Naga society. He also highlighted the importance of preserving Naga languages.
In a book review, Rev. Dr. Ezamo Murry described T.Kikon as a “chronicler” who has recorded the events in Nagaland with accuracy and order.
The book release was chaired by Kohima Lotha Baptist Church (KLBC) associate Pastor Renthüngo Kikon; invocation by KLBC associate Pastor, Libonthüng Yanthan; Yanthünglo K. Humtsoe read out an extract from the autobiography and vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. K. Metha.
The programme was attended by family members, friends, writers, well wishers and others.