Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu and others during release of nine books on October 30. (Morung Photo)
Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu calls for unity through literature
Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 30
Nine Tenyidie books authored by prominent Naga writers and scholars were released during the Kethumia Mu Ükezomia Kehou (Writers and Poets Meet) held at Ura Academy, Kohima on October 30.
The event, organized by Ura Academy, celebrated Tenyimia literature, poetry, and creative expression while highlighting the Academy’s ongoing commitment to preserve and promote the Tenyidie language and Naga cultural identity.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu, President, Ura Academy, reflected on the role of literature in fostering unity amid challenges.
“We the Nagas today are in a situation where there are many political parties and several political freedom fighter groups divided into various factions. However, we, the Tenyimia people, must come together in oneness, move forward, and give greater effort toward strengthening our community,” he said, urging writers and poets to use creativity as a tool for healing and solidarity.
Dr Liezietsu further encouraged authors to bring out more books and poems that reflect the realities and aspirations of the people.
He reminded that much of the community’s literature remains at risk of being lost if not recorded and preserved.
The books included Nagamia Seyie Dze by Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu, Zeliangmia Dzeweko Kephrü mu Mechü Kelhou nu Kese by Kikruneinuo Liezietsu, Kehoupuorei (Zhovi Rüsie) by Late Prof. D. Kuolie, Terhüneio: Rüsie by Vesetso Rose, Amu Nuo Pelimia and Thenupfü Rüli by Khrinyio Leruo, Charlie: Übou Vüyakezhayo by Khriesaneisa Rutsa, Kewhira Mission Compound by Vitshulieü Sekhose, and A Terhü Ze Kese Mecüthorte by Daso Paphino.
The event also featured a special song by Ato Nienu, a poetry reading by M. Meguo-o, and a folk performance by Viswema Tsiepfumia Krotho.
The programme, chaired by Daso Paphino, Vice President, Ura Academy.
The programme concluded with a mass prayer, reaffirming Ura Academy’s dedication to nurturing literature and preserving Naga heritage through the power of words.
