Hornbill Literature Fest gets underway

Correspondent KISAMA, DECEMBER 2 TWO-day Hornbill Literature Fest 2013 got underway here today at the Heritage Bamboo Hall, Kisama. The event was formally launched by the minister for Tourism and Art & Culture, EE Pangteang by lighting up the ceremonial lamp consisting of 50 candles signifying the 50 years of Nagaland statehood and the flickering flames representing the wisdom of its litterateurs.Pangteang, in his brief address, said it is greatly encouraging to see the emergence of many prominent Naga writers. He lauded Naga writers and authors for their works and expressed optimism that they will pass on the legacy of the history the Nagas and their rich culture through literature. The minister released 5 books on the occasion- ‘Geography of Nagaland’ authored by Soyunlo Sep, ‘Tenyidie Literature: Traditional and Modern’ by Dr. D. Kuolie, ‘Straight from a Writer’s Heart’ by Vinoholi H. Chophy, ‘Crime in Nagaland: A Sociological Investigation’ by M. Temjen Longkumer, and ‘Tribal Transformation of the Early History of the Naga Hills’ by late Dr. Gordon P. Means (edited by Achila Erdican). The authors and editor also shared brief summaries on their respective books. Meanwhile, the names of the Hornbill Literature Fest 2013 short story and poetry contest winners were announced. Sentilong Ozukum, the writer of ‘Grandfather’ was adjudged the winner of the short story category while ‘The Art of Living’ by Kenilo Kent won the poetry section. Later in the evening, a poetry session and ethnographic film screening were also held as part of the literary event.