Runshito Lims releases 'The Ancestral Voices', a collection of Yimkhiung Naga tales, at Alder College, Kohima.
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KOHIMA — ‘The Ancestral Voices’, a collection of Yimkhiung Naga tales and stories authored by Runshito Lims, was released on Wednesday at Dr. Setu Memorial Hall, Alder College, Kohima.
The book marks Lims' third book and the 116th publication of the PenThrill Publication House.
Currently an Assistant Professor of English at Alder College, Kohima, Lims shared that his love for storytelling began at an early age, growing up with his grandparents and listening to stories.
As he grew up, he carried those stories with him. He hoped the book would inspire readers, particularly from his community, to become storytellers of tomorrow and preserve and share the rich cultural legacy.
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He observed that the art of storytelling is slowly dying and called for inculcating the art of listening to rekindle the art of storytelling. He further encouraged upcoming writers not just to listen to stories but to research, refine, and retell them.
Releasing the book, Obed Quinker, Chairman of Nagaland Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM), noted that everyone should have the ability to listen well. The one who listens is the one who writes. He further encouraged people to read, adding that reading books is not easy and is a skill to be acquired.
Vishü Rita Krocha, publisher, PenThrill Publication House, said the stories he has brought alive through this book belong not only to the Yimkhiung community but also to every Naga.
“As people belonging to different tribes, we may have different ways of doing things or follow different traditions at home, in the village, or in society at large, but as Nagas, we really do have a common thread that binds us, and there's just so much beauty in the different cultures that every Naga tribe has," she added. She hoped that more such books would also emerge from other tribal communities.
R Tohanba, Chairman of the Yimkhiung Literature Board, said the book is a huge feat for the community and urged the people to continue contributing to literature. He stated that the author is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance and that his stories have the power to inspire, educate, and preserve the rich heritage.
Other highlights included a book review by Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, poet, academic and educator; an address by Laji Luyanba, General Secretary of the Yimkhiung Tribal Council; and a song presentation by Rokonuo Mekro.