KOHIMA — A poet from Nagaland, Tiala Sangtam Neihu, released her second book titled ‘Anam Cara’ on Tuesday at Ura Hotel in Kohima. Her debut book titled ‘The Yeloow Sunset’ was released in 2020.
Zakiebeituo Metha, pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church, Kohima, released the book.
Neihu, who is also a working mother, shared that most of her poems in the new book are written from her heart exploring themes on love, anger, questions. She encouraged the people to cultivate the habit of reading saying that reading is a form of exercise for the brain.
She informed that her poems in the new book are narrative in nature.
‘Anam Cara’ consisted of 58 poems and a short story in the closing chapter.
Speaking about the title of the book ‘Anam Cara,’ she said to have chanced upon the name and came to learn its meaning as “soul friend.” Coincidentally, she was writing a poem on friendship and gave the titled of the poem as ‘Anam Cara,’ which ultimately became the title of the book.
Releasing the book, Zakiebeituo Metha, said her poems often resonate with authenticity because she captures life, beauty, pain and complexity. Her works are a testament and reflection of her faith, experiences and life journey, Metha said.
He reminded all to remember the art of reading, revising and visualising the effort she has put on to bring her book to fruition. He expressed hope that her book would connect, educate, inspire and uplift everyone who reads it.
Publisher of the PenThrill Publication House, Vishu Rita Krocha, observed that Tiala has been consistent in her writing. Stating that Tiala was known more as a poet earlier, Krocha said she has also proved herself as a short story writer today with the launch of her book.
“We are at a time in the history of Naga literature where we are carving our own path and creating our own narratives, which is very crucial in determining the future of literature in the state”, Krocha said.
She mentioned that given her decade long experience in publishing literary works from Nagaland, she realised that the potential in literary craft is not just limited to a particular genre but also have seen and published creative works of art over the years that piqued her interest and further fueled her enthusiasm in publishing.
As a publisher, she said she was equally encouraged and privileged to publish the works of both emerging and established writers from Nagaland.
She added the primary reason for publishing books remains the same- to give a platform for writers to get published and to promote the culture of reading besides preserving the rich heritage of our stories.
“If books are published but people don't read them, it's also in vain. I mean writers don't write to get any validation or recognition but it's my personal belief that writing is a labour of love,” she pointed out and encouraged all to read.