NEW DELHI, May 30: Noted Khasi poet and writer, Dr Kynpham Sing Nongkynrih, on Friday revealed he firmly believes in literary rootedness, which does not imply insularity or a preference for the local over the global.
Citing examples from his work, Dr Nongkynrih said, “Let me begin by saying that I’m a… For instance, my epic-length novel, Funeral Nights, contains ‘stories that have clung to me since childhood, nursed over many years with tender care in the flower pots of memory’ (FN). The stories are, without exception, Khasi and native to the soil, nurtured by the sun and rain of home, and yet, the novel has been described by national and international reviewers as ‘an enchanting and revealing epic ensemble’.”
The renowned, award-winning poet was speaking at the two-day national literary conference titled ‘How Much Has Literature Changed?’ at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here, which culminated on Friday.
The landmark literary event, organised by the Sahitya Akademi, was inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu and was attended by prominent writers from various Indian languages across the country.
During the programme, Dr Nongkynrih said that his stories reveal not only their specific qualities but also their humanity and universality. “The roots of one’s writings may have sunken deep into one’s land, but their spreading branches may yet enfold the universe,” he said.
“Rootedness led me to a genre-bending fictional work in Funeral Nights—a groundbreaking novel in both its writing and subject,” he said, quoting renowned publications.
In writing this book, the author wanted to depict traditional Khasi life and manners in their totality, presenting an authentic picture of “Khasiness” to the world.
Meanwhile, President Murmu, in her speech, emphasised the timeless relevance of literature in shaping individual ideals and societal values. “Ordinary people can draw inspiration from literature and strive to realise their ideals,” she said.
On the other hand, Special Secretary and Financial Advisor to the Ministry of Culture, Ranjana Chopra, noted the emerging challenges faced by literature in the digital era, particularly in preserving originality amidst technological and social shifts.
