Naga writers urged to reclaim narrative and amplify indigenous voices

KOHIMA — Shürhozelie Liezietsu, President of Ura Academy, urged Naga writers to reclaim their narrative and amplify indigenous voices through writing.

Speaking at the fourth Nagaland Literature Festival held at Kohima on Wednesday, Liezietsu highlighted the historical context of Naga stories being initially documented and interpreted by outsiders during the British colonial era.

“Our stories were introduced to the world through the lens of others and inevitably presented an image of how they saw and interpreted us. And because we were defined by them, the Naga voice was absent in the first written Naga stories. Certain stereotypes have also set in,” he said.

Written Naga literature is a fairly new development, and it is at a very crucial and exciting juncture, he said, adding “as we learn to tell and write our own stories, we are on a journey of self discovery.”

He also emphasised that Nagas have always had a rich oral tradition through which all stories and songs, proverbs and history have been passed down through generations. While acknowledging the invaluable nature of this oral tradition, Liezietsu stressed the vital role of writing in the present day, enabling Nagas to control their own narratives and share their stories with the world on their own terms.

He encouraged Naga writers to explore diverse literary forms, from prose and poetry to narratives, epics, and dramatic works, to fully capture the richness and complexity of Naga experiences. He also expressed hope that the festival would explore ways to promote and amplify emerging Naga voices, support language preservation and encourage new generations of Naga writers and storytellers.

The festival, organised independently by Writers Collective for the first time, marked a departure from its previous inclusion in the Hornbill Festival. This shift, according to Vishü Rita Krocha, poet, journalist, and founding member of Writers Collective, represents a new beginning for the festival, allowing for greater independence and focus.

“For a government to support the cause of literature (or for that matter, any other cause), it takes sheer willpower, dedication, and commitment. But we all know, and I am also sad to say this, ‘literature’ is not on the government’s priority list. And when I say this, I also speak from personal experience of working for the promotion of literature for the past many years spanning over a decade,” she said.

The festival also featured a panel discussion on “Amplifying Our Indigenous Voices,” with participants including Dr. Inakali Assumi, rapper Moko Koza, artist Megosano Sakhrie, and teacher-writer Jungmayangla Longkumer.

Moderated by Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, the discussion explored the multifaceted nature of indigenous identity and the importance of self-representation. The panellists agreed that “indigenous” means being rooted in one’s own culture and having historical and cultural awareness.

Other highlights of the festival include storytelling sessions, open mic performances, a book writing workshop, musical performances, and various other artistic expressions.