Kaisa Rio releasing the book ‘Freerain’ written by Dr. Easterine Kire at The White Owl, Niathu Plaza, Chümoukedima, on Saturday. (EM Images)
DIMAPUR — "Freerain," the latest poetry collection by renowned poet Dr. Easterine Kire, was launched on Saturday days after she was named one of the 21 authors across the nation to be honoured with the Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 for her novel “Spirit Nights” released in 2022.
Published by Penguin Random House India, the book was released by Kaisa Rio, wife of Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, at The White Owl, Niathu Plaza, Chümoukedima.
Speaking on the occasion, Rio described the book as very heartwarming, saying it relates to everyone's feelings as one goes through it.
Congratulating the poet, she stated that the occasion was not merely a book launch but a moment to reflect on the rich poetic tradition that runs through the culture, the language and the very existence.
She noted that poetry is not confined to the written word; it flows through daily life. She added that in day-to-day existence, poetry is always composed to be sung or chanted.
Stating that every poem is a song, resonating with the rhythm of hearts and the cadence of collective memory, she added that the unique oral tradition ties people to their roots and ensures that heritage continues to thrive in the present.
“Our elders too are poets in their own right with their measured words, their wisdom unfolding in verses rich with imagery, metaphors and depth,” she said and maintained that their everyday conversations are not mere exchanges of words but expressions of profound thoughts.
Stating that the poetess has an extraordinary gift, Rio said she distils the beauty and rhythm of life into stanzas that resonate with all through her words. She added that her work reminded others to listen more closely to the poetry that surrounds them to cherish and share it with others.
“Today, as we launch Freerain, let us celebrate the gift of nature in our lives and may it inspire us to recognise the poetry that surrounds us and carry it forward into the world,” she added.
Peter Modoli, associate vice president (marketing and publicity) at Penguin Random House India, stated that Dr. Kire is one of the foremost voices in literature, not only in the region but also in the entire country and worldwide. He added that as a publisher, it has been a dream to have her work published with them.
On the occasion, Dr. Kire read a few poems from the book including "Morning Poem," "Your Face," "Midnight Moon," "Autumn," "Hush, It's Winter," "Life is a Log Drum," "The Most Important Thing," and "For My Son."
She also mentioned that a jazz band has planned a concert based on 16 of her poems and is eager to visit Nagaland in November 2025.
The 92-page book, priced at INR 399, is available in bookstores and on online platforms such as Amazon.