Written by Celebrating Indigenous Narratives at the 4th Edition of the Nagaland Literature Festival 2024
The Nagaland Literature Festival is back with its 4th edition, set to take place on November 13, 2024, at the Capital Cultural Hall Complex in Kohima. Organized by the Writers Collective Kohima, this annual literary celebration has become a cornerstone for Naga writers, poets, artists, and culture enthusiasts, aiming to amplify the voices and stories of the people of Nagaland.
This year’s theme, “Amplifying Our Indigenous Voices,” speaks to the heart of what the festival has always been about: sharing, preserving, and celebrating the rich cultural narratives of Nagaland. Here’s a look at the exciting lineup of speakers and events that await attendees at this year’s festival.
Panel Discussion on “Amplifying Our Indigenous Voices”
One of the main highlights of the festival is the panel discussion, where influential voices from diverse fields will share their thoughts and experiences around the theme. The panel includes:
- Dr. Inakali Assumi: A dedicated author, researcher, and educator, Dr. Assumi has focused her work on preserving vulnerable cultural heritage, especially in the form of traditional folksongs. Her passion for cultural preservation earned her the prestigious Tata Steel Foundation Samvaad Fellowship in 2022.
- Jungmayangla Longkumer: As a professor in the Department of Agricultural Extension Education at Nagaland University, Medziphema Campus, Jungmayangla is also a writer and poet with three published books to her name. Her work bridges academia and literature, making her an inspiring voice in both fields.
- Moko Koza: Known for his influence on the music scene, Moko Koza is a celebrated rapper and songwriter who has won the Best Hip-Hop/Rap category at the Nagaland Music Awards twice, and recently bagged the Best Hip-Hop/Rap Artist award at Radio City Freedom Awards 2023. His achievements include the TaFMA Excellence Award in music.
- Megosano: An artist who expresses herself through calligraphy, clay, and watercolor, Megosano advocates for art as a therapeutic outlet. With her creative handle, @m.for.apples, she shares her artwork online, encouraging others to find healing and joy through artistic expression.
- Mhasheseno Hibo: A folk musician who brings the unique sounds of the Tati (a traditional Naga instrument) to life, Mhasheseno has performed for the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) and holds a Grade 6 vocal certification from Rock School UK. Her performances have taken her across the state and beyond, celebrating traditional Naga music.
Special Host: Kevilenuo Miachieo
Hosting the festival this year is Kevilenuo Miachieo, a familiar face in Nagaland’s cultural scene. Kevilenuo holds a master’s degree in English Literature and is known for her titles as Miss Convergence 2018 and Miss Kohima 2nd Runner Up 2018. Her experience as a runway model and love for literature make her the perfect guide for this year’s festival journey.
Storytelling from Text to Screen with Joe Rutsa and Sentilong Ozukum
Another captivating session titled “Storytelling from Text to Screen” will explore the journey of bringing stories to life through multimedia. This session will be led by Joe Rutsa and Sentilong Ozukum, who will share their insights on storytelling in the digital age.
- Sentilong Ozukum: A civil servant, author, and screenwriter from Nagaland, Sentilong is well-known for his impactful storytelling. His works, including Campus Blues (2010), Sincerely Yours (2017), Dreams & Chaos (2020), The Case of Longti Village (2021), and Teacher Man (2022), have earned acclaim for their authentic portrayal of Naga life and culture. Many of his books have been adapted into award-winning web series, theatre plays, and movies, highlighting his expertise in transforming text into powerful visual narratives.
- Joe Rutsa: A content creator and YouTuber, Joe pursued his education at the prestigious University of Western Ontario, specializing in Radiation Sciences. He channels his creativity into video content and hosts a popular YouTube podcast, “My Dad’s Office.”
Together, Joe and Sentilong will offer valuable insights into adapting traditional and modern narratives for the screen, making this session a must-attend for aspiring content creators and storytellers looking to bridge text and visual storytelling.
The Journey of Nagaland Literature Festival
Since its inception, the Nagaland Literature Festival has been committed to fostering a community of writers, artists, and readers. The 3rd edition, held in December 2023 with the theme “Writing Nagaland,” focused on the evolving narratives of the Naga society and the role of literature in capturing the essence of a changing culture. This year’s edition builds on that foundation by emphasizing indigenous voices and encouraging discussions around cultural identity and heritage preservation.
Why You Should Attend
For literature lovers, artists, and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of Nagaland, this festival is a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded people, share ideas, and immerse in the creative expressions of the region. The Nagaland Literature Festival 2024 offers a space where art meets advocacy, and where the voices of indigenous creators are amplified on a national stage.
Event Details
Date: November 13, 2024
Location: Capital Cultural Hall Complex, Kohima
Entry: Open to all
Don’t miss this chance to experience the power of indigenous narratives and celebrate the voices that make Nagaland’s cultural landscape vibrant and diverse. Whether you’re a writer, an artist, or a cultural enthusiast, the 4th Nagaland Literature Festival promises to leave you enriched and inspired.