Dimapur, May 1 (EMN): Naga folklore titled ‘‘A girl swallowed by a tree: Lotha Naga tales retold’ by Nzanmongi Jasmine Patton was released at India International Centre (IIC), New Delhi, on April 29. The launched was attended by eminent academicians from many leading universities and other places.
Dr. Zuchamo Yanthan, president of Naga Scholars’ Association, welcomed the gathering and initiated discussion by introducing the panel of experts, who later broadened the discourse on the book.
The author described her book as an introduction to Lotha Naga way of life as in the past and the traditions it holds forth till today. She said, ‘the book has stories that celebrate nature, customs, history and its culture in various shades.’
She further stated that the book has given a holistic preview of Lotha Naga life, which was earlier not known to the outside world or acknowledged for its due contributions to the making of this world.
The book marked an important beginning of the process of recording the truth.
With the launching of the book, it is believed that the knowledge based Lotha Naga culture will be identified in its true spirit. It must be also mentioned that the qualitative work contributed towards making of the book has given recognition to Nzanmongi Jasmine Patton as one of the authentic researchers on Lotha Nagas.
The book was released Prof. Simi Malhotra, Director of Centre for North East Studies & Policy Research, Jamia Milia Islamia University. Prof. Simi gave profound reflections on the book and appreciated the author Nzanmongi Jasmine Patton for the significant contribution she had made towards presenting Naga society, North East and beyond in their true spirit.
Ruby Hembron, Director of Adivanni Publication, also expressed her appreciation and happiness to the author for publishing a Lotha Naga tales by an indigenous writer.
The event was chaired by Dr. Veio Pou, author of ‘Literary traditions of India’s North East.’ Dr. Veio gave his evaluative remarks on the book and opened discussion on the book from the audience. The event also added beautiful flavours through the presentation of English, Hindi by Maker Kashung and Kaguirong Gonmei and beautiful Lotha folk song by Deborah and Sungtiben.
