Honour the power of literature: Nagaland CM

2nd White-Owl Literature Festival and Book Fair unfolds in Chümoukedima

Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | February 17 

Literature has the power to shape societies, bridge divides, and bring about change and it is everyone’s responsibility to honour this power, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio stated today. 

Honour and use the power wisely and continue inspire generations to come, he added, addressing the inaugural session of the 3-day White-Owl Literature Festival and Book Fair which kicked off at the Zone Niathu by the Park, Chümoukedima on February 19. 

CM Rio also maintained that the festival was more than just a gathering of literary minds but “a celebration of stories, ideas, and the rich tapestry of cultures that define our great nation.”

Addressing the authors present, he underscored that they are not just writers but “ambassadors of your heritage, custodians of the narratives that have been passed down through generations.”

“Each of you carries the weight of your lineage, the voices of your ancestors, and the stories of your people. With every word you write, you weave together the past and the future, ensuring that the cultural standards of excellence in thought, expression, and creativity,” he added

Conveying his best wishes, he expressed hope that the festival continues to grow, inspire, and serve as a beacon of knowledge and creativity for years to come. 

Meanwhile, Festival Director and Proprietor, The White Owl, Viketuno Iralu Rio, noted that the ‘incredible response’ to the first edition reaffirmed the profound ability of literature to unite, inspire, and transform. 

“This year, we return with renewed passion, ready to explore, learn, and express creativity on an even deeper level,” she noted. 

According to her, for this year theme, the team revisited the vision of the White Owl that sought to reignite the enthusiasm for the timeless acts of reading and listening, inspiring the community to reflect on their significance.

The process resulted in a conclusion that a meaningful literature festival, especially in Nagaland, must begin by asking, “why do we read? Why do we listen? And ultimately, why do we write?”

With these questions in mind, the theme, listen, read, write was chosen, and it was later refined to “Inspire, Imagine, and Inscribe” to better capture the spirit of literary exploration.

“Before we write, we must read. Before we read, we must listen. These three elements form the foundation upon which ideas shape and evolve,” Viketuno noted, inviting the festival participants to listen attentively, to read widely, and to write with purpose.

She further maintained that festival is more than an event but a  movement towards through ‘thought-provoking’ panel discussions and creative workshops, and equipping the next generation with the skills to express themselves meaningfully. 

Further steps towards meaningful impact are also being undertaken with launching of zero-waste initiative ensuring sustainability remains at the core of the efforts, she added.

In commitment to inclusivity, a charity run on February 7 was held, while charity concerts are scheduled on February 17 and 18 to raise awareness and encourage a more accepting society for families and children with disabilities, the festival director stated. 

She also highlighted on a specially curated children's programme focusing on mental health and emotional self-awareness, inclusivity and diversity, and the rich heritage of folklore and culture. 

To this end, Viketuno invited participants to fully immerse themselves in this festival, to listen, read, write, and embrace the power of words.