By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The art of poetry writing amongst the Khasis is inborn but it is up to them to shape, mould and channelize the talent for future reference, observed Dr Sylvanus Lamare, Principal, St. Edmund’s College.
Addressing the gathering at the valedictory function of the 3rd Meghalaya Poetry Competition-2012 organised by the All India Poetess Conference (AIPC), Meghalaya Chapter in collaboration with the State Government under the Chief Minister Youth Development Scheme (CMYDS) at the Arts and Culture hall here on Monday, Dr Lamare said according to the history of the Khasis, every Khasi people is a born poet and it is up to them to choose, whether or not to continue developing that inborn talent.
Dr Lamare also suggested that the AIPC, Meghalaya Chapter should publish these poetries not only in newspapers but also in books so as to preserve their writings and also to encourage the youths to have interest in writing poetries.
Meanwhile, addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Additional Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills, R Marak, said that such events will help the AIPC, Meghalaya Chapter to encourage the younger generation in writings, adding that most of the children today are engaged in modern technologies like video games etc.
On the occasion, prizes were awarded to the winners of the 3rd Meghalaya Poetry Competition, 2012 with Nangkyrsoi Synrem from Kelian Memorial School bagging the first prize and F Christy Linda Lyngkhei of Synod Higher Secondary School and P Bareh of JNV, Mukhla securing the second and the third prize respectively in Category A (Khasi). In Category A (English), Catherine Lymba of Synod higher Secondary School and Ritilin Mawlong of Shillong College bagged the top two positions respectively. In category B (Khasi) Nisha Thongphai bagged the first prize while Bonny L Kharbani bagged the second prize. In category B (English), H Bankerlang Thabah of St. Edmund’s College bagged the first prize while Jerry Pyrtuh of Umshyrpi College bagged the second prize.