Dr. Inakali Assumi stresses importance of indigenous knowledge
The department of English at Norman Putsure College (NPC), Chümoukedima, organised its inaugural Lecture Series 01 with Dr.Inakali Assumi, author, researcher, and educator, as the resource speaker
Dr. Inakali Assumi with students and faculty members of
Norman Putsure College after the lecture on Saturday.
- DIMAPUR — The
department of English at Norman Putsure College (NPC), Chümoukedima, organised
its inaugural Lecture Series 01 on Saturday, on the topic "Echoes of the
past: the role and revival of folk literature in modern society" with Dr.
Inakali Assumi, author, researcher, and educator, as the resource speaker for
the event.
- According to a press release, Dr. Assumi’s lecture began
with the narration of two Sumi folk tales, each carrying a moral lesson about
the cycle of life—originating from nature and ultimately returning to it.
- She highlighted that folk narratives are not merely for
entertainment but serve as a vessel for ancestral wisdom. Additionally, she
highlighted the importance of indigenous knowledge and the need to reconnect
with nature.
- Stating that Naga folk songs are distinctive, imbued with a
rhythmic, chant-like essence as they draw deep inspiration from nature, she
noted that these songs and tales were not just artistic expressions but also
means of imparting moral values and life lessons. Through them, history and
traditions were preserved and passed down.
- She mentioned that colonial intervention disrupted and
distorted cultural identity to such an extent that documentation became an
urgent necessity and added that the need to cherish and embrace one’s heritage
is crucial. Yet, the challenge remains—the last living custodians of these
traditions are vanishing before proper documentation can be completed.
- Dr. Assumi urged a conscious effort to "rethink our
choices" in order to revive folk literature. She stressed that reclaiming
one’s cultural identity requires a deep appreciation of one's roots, and that
firsthand cultural knowledge is invaluable in this process.
