Get ready for an enriching celebration of literature, culture, and creativity at the 4th Nagaland Literature Festival, happening on November 13, 2024, at the Capital Cultural Hall Complex, Kohima. This year, the festival invites everyone to dive deep into the theme “Amplifying Our Indigenous Voices” and experience the powerful narratives and art that reflect Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage.
The annual event, organized by Writers Collective Kohima, brings together a diverse community of authors, poets, musicians, and artists, all with a shared passion for preserving and promoting indigenous stories. Here’s what’s in store for attendees at this year’s event.
Unveiling Indigenous Narratives: Panel Discussion on “Amplifying Our Indigenous Voices”
One of the festival’s main attractions is a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring prominent voices who are actively working to preserve and amplify Naga culture through various forms of expression. This year’s panelists include:
- Dr. Inakali Assumi: A researcher, educator, and recipient of the Tata Steel Foundation Samvaad Fellowship 2022, Dr. Assumi is dedicated to preserving cultural heritage, especially through traditional folksongs. Her research adds an academic depth to the discussion around cultural preservation.
- Jungmayangla Longkumer: As a professor at Nagaland University’s School of Agricultural Sciences, Jungmayangla is also an accomplished writer and poet. With three published books, she brings a unique perspective from academia and literature to the conversation.
- Moko Koza: Known for his influence on the Indian hip-hop scene, Moko is a celebrated rapper and songwriter, with accolades including the Best Hip-Hop/Rap Artist award at the 2023 Radio City Freedom Awards. His achievements underscore the growing reach of indigenous voices in mainstream music.
- Megosano: A versatile artist and online creator, Megosano is known for her beautiful calligraphy and artwork shared through her handle @m.for.apples. She champions art as a form of therapy, believing in its power to uplift and heal.
- Mhasheseno Hibo: Bringing traditional Naga music to life, Mhasheseno is a folk musician skilled with the Tati. She has performed widely, showcasing the richness of Naga musical heritage, and holds a Grade 6 vocal certification from Rock School UK.
Hosted by Kevilenuo Miachieo
This year’s host, Kevilenuo Miachieo, is no stranger to the Naga cultural scene. With a background in English Literature, she has previously held titles like Miss Convergence 2018 and Miss Kohima 2nd Runner Up 2018. Her charisma and passion for literature make her a perfect fit to guide attendees through this day of celebration and reflection.
Special Session: Bringing Stories to Life – “Storytelling from Text to Screen”
One of the festival’s most anticipated sessions is “Storytelling from Text to Screen,” which explores the journey of adapting narratives for digital platforms. Leading this session are Joe Rutsa and Sentilong Ozukum, who will share their experiences and techniques for making traditional stories accessible in today’s multimedia landscape.
- Joe Rutsa: With a background in Radiation Sciences from the University of Western Ontario, Joe brings his creative skills to video content and podcasting. He hosts “My Dad’s Office” on YouTube, where he combines storytelling with digital content creation.
- Sentilong Ozukum: A civil servant, writer, and screenwriter, Sentilong is known for his acclaimed works such as Campus Blues (2010), Sincerely Yours (2017), Dreams & Chaos (2020), The Case of Longti Village (2021), and Teacher Man (2022). Many of his books have been adapted into award-winning web series, plays, and films, making him an authority on the art of adaptation. His work explores themes of identity, community, and cultural dynamics in Nagaland, bringing these narratives to broader audiences through various media.
This session is ideal for aspiring writers, content creators, and anyone interested in learning how to adapt written stories for visual storytelling.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss the 4th Nagaland Literature Festival
The Nagaland Literature Festival continues to be a gathering place for everyone who values cultural heritage, indigenous narratives, and creative expression. The previous edition highlighted the evolving identities within Nagaland under the theme “Writing Nagaland,” while this year’s event seeks to amplify those voices and foster deeper discussions around preservation and identity.
Date: November 13, 2024
Location: Capital Cultural Hall Complex, Kohima
Entry: Open to all
Mark your calendar for an unforgettable day of storytelling, music, art, and insightful discussions. The 4th Nagaland Literature Festival promises to be a celebration of Naga culture and creativity, offering inspiration for all who attend.
