Tangkhul Literature Festival 2022 held at Ukhrul
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik
Ukhrul, December 13 2022:
Ukhrul MLA Ramnganing Muivah inaugurated the two-day Tangkhul Literature Festival 2022 at Union Baptist Church Old Building Phungreitang, Ukhrul today.
During the inaugural ceremony, Professor Darlando T Khathing vice chancellor, North East Christian University in his keynote address dwelt on Tangkhul indigenous knowledge "oral literature" adding that it was western missionary Rev William Pettigrew who transformed and introduced written Tangkhul literature.
Speaking as the chief guest, MLA Ram Muivah stated that Tangkhuls fondly remember Rev William Pettigrew as the father of Tangkhul literature while adding that he invented two extra vowels which further advanced the Tangkhul literature.
It was also pointed out that Pettigrew published the first Tangkhul primer, grammar, dictionary and hymnal books and also went on to translate the New Testament (Bible) .
Following this many Tangkhuls such as MK Shimray, Kanrei Shaiza, T Luikham started to write books on Tangkhul civilization and culture, he maintained.
The two-day programme will consist of various events such as panel discussion and talks, a special interactive session with Tangkhul writers, artistes, poets and others.
As a part of the programme, musical performances were presented by Pam's Kindergarten along with folk song by Guru Rawung.
Notably, Tangkhul Literature Festival was organised by Tangkhul Naga Society Delhi in collaboration with North East Foundation for Education and Culture & Association of Recognised Schools Ukhrul District.