Nagaland CM inaugurates ‘The White Owl Literature Festival & Book Fair’

DIMAPUR: Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurated the first edition of the two-day “The White Owl Literature and Book Fair” at Chumoukedima on Friday (February 09).

“The White Owl Literature Festival and Book Fair” is a collaborative effort between The White Owl Book Lounge, Cambridge University Press and Penguin Random House India.

Being held on the theme “Echoes of Narratives”, the festival aims to revive a passion for reading and honour the state’s rich storytelling heritage, cherished across generations.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural programme, Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio said that the collaboration between The White Owl, Penguin and Cambridge University Press has given birth to a literature festival that marks a historic moment in Northeast India.

“This unique partnership between one of the largest trade and academic publishers, Penguin and Cambridge University Press, is a testament to the power of literature in uniting diverse communities, a moment that fills us with enthusiasm and pride,” Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio said.

He hoped that the two-day fair would be marked by vibrant discussions, sharing of knowledge and ideas, and an exchange of perspectives that will enrich our understanding of the pivotal role literature plays in the life of a community.

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CM Rio noted that the theme of the fair resonates deeply with the literary heritage of Nagaland.

“Our cultural richness finds expression in both oral and written forms, with storytelling being a thread that weaves us into the tapestry of our origins. The tradition of oral literature manifested through folktales and songs, is a precious legacy that connects us to a time long before the written word emerged.

“It is imperative that we cherish and actively engage in the preservation of our oral literature, for it is through storytelling that we safeguard our cultural identity,” the Nagaland CM said.

Rio also hoped that this fair would serve as an inspiration for the younger generation to read more, write more, and actively contribute to the documentation and preservation of “our vibrant literary traditions”.

He urged them to not merely extract information from books but also seek to understand and appreciate the diverse narratives that make up the fabric of our society.

The two-day fair will feature a diverse range of programmes, including author sessions, cultural performances and food stalls. It will also offer a wide selection of literature.