In Delhi, the Tangkhul Literature Festival 'Tangkhul tui kala Wortham' is Held

Explore the enriching Tangkhul Literature Festival, a celebration of language and heritage, held in Delhi on September 16th.

on Sep 20, 2023

In Delhi, the Tangkhul Literature Festival 'Tangkhul tui kala Wortham' is Held | Frontlist

The Tangkhul Naga Society Delhi collaborated with the Tangkhul Scholars Association in Delhi to stage the Tangkhul Literature Festival on September 16 at Rajdhani College, Delhi University, in what can only be described as an intellectually stimulating and fulfilling occasion.

The festival was organised around the theme 'Tangkhul tui kala Wortham,' which translates as Tangkhul Language and Literature, with participants debating the knowledge repository embedded in Tangkhul Tui (Language) and the importance of re-enforcing and re-building Tangkhul literature, which defines the history and identity of the Tangkhul society. Laasem (Poem) recitations, paper presentations, and discussion hours were the key attractions of the festival's two sessions.

The event opened with a greeting from Dr. Mirinchonme Mahongnao, Secretary of the TSA.

Dr Yuimirin Kapai gave a paper presentation on "Tangkhul Tuiyan kala Tangkhul Tui Ngacham kakhui." Dr. AC Kharingpam spoke about "Mirin Kalrangayot: Tangkhul Wordham wui Mirin Teomeikha," while Dr. Tuisem Ngakang spoke about "Tangkhul Wordham li Kanrei Shaiza na Yantmikahai Sharuk."

Sanamla Ragui and Major Bob Khathing Ralengnao, two prominent Tangkhul poets, recited poems at the festival's second session. Worso Zimik also spoke at this session about "Ain kala Wordham wui Khangashik." Pamyo Chamroy spoke about "Laa hi Channa, Chan hi Laana," and Shaokhai Mayirnao spoke about "Longshim kashiman eina Ngasoda Khimamei Shimnhao khala?"

The paper presentations were thoroughly enlightening, from exploring the wealth of Tangkhul grammar to how its descriptive and prescriptive usage can enrich Tangkhul literature to analysing the transition of literature from oral to written by delving into the pioneering works of Kanrei Shaiza, to dissecting the meaning and history of language and literature and their relevance in the formation of civilizations.

The essence of literature was also addressed through the dynamic interchange of ideas in paper presentations that covered the relationship between law and literature, songs and literature in regard to folk songs, and a critical analysis of Longshim's disappearance. Another important aspect of the Festival was the discussion of the subtleties of standardizing Tangkhul Tui.

The festival was a huge success, thanks to the participation of Prof. Yaruingam Awungshi as the Chief Guest and the attendance of numerous literature aficionados from all walks of life. A magnificent midday meal infused the festivities with a sense of connection and community. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr Franky Varah, General Secretary of the TNSD.