SHILLONG, May 22: The Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU) observed ‘World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development’ by releasing four books on Meghalaya and the Northeast on Tuesday.
The books encompass topics such as tribal health, culture, traditions, and society. They are titled Khasi Ethics 3rd Edition by Barnes Mawrie, Ha Yupiam Ka Bei by Amabel Susngi, Waiting for an Equal World 2nd Edition by Patricia Mukhim and Tribal Health and Well-being in Meghalaya, India.
The last book is by Nandaris Marwein, Nadeen Pakyntein, Melissa Kyndiah, Melodynia Marpna, Jemimah Marak, Badalamshisha Dkhar, Careen J Langstieh, Merril N Sangma, Sandra Albert, Glenn Kharkongor and Larilin Kharpuri of MLCU.
In her welcome address, Research Dean Dr Kharpuri said diversity needs to be celebrated with dialogue and development for all in today’s age. She said the 17 sustainable development goals can best be achieved by drawing upon the creative potential of the world’s diverse cultures and engaging in continuous dialogue to ensure that all members of society benefit from sustainable development.
Malcolm D Roy, the Pro-Chancellor of MLCU, released Khasi Ethics 3rd Edition. He spoke on the uniqueness and importance of preserving the traditional Khasi codes of ethics that emerged from ancient knowledge and persisted. He said the book is an impactful recording and preservation of Khasi culture and values.
Desmond Rimaki Sunn, a folk singer-songwriter and radio jockey, released Ha Yupiam Ka Bei (On Mother’s Lap), a collection of traditional Khasi lullabies. Instead of a speech, he sang Jing Kylla Ka Por (The Change of Time) from his second music album.
Aptly, the song was about childhood days.
Sukalpa Bhattacharjee from NEHU’s English Department released Waiting for an Equal World 2nd Edition. She said the first edition of this book was well-received by researchers and academicians. The second will go a long way to contribute to scholarship pursuits in the Northeast, with the book’s special mention of the current conflict in Manipur.
Alka Kharsati, a Khasi traditional healer released Tribal Health and Wellbeing in Meghalaya, India. She spoke on the importance of such literature and how it bridges the gap between traditional and modern medicine. Neha Naqvi, Project Coordinator of the South Asian branch of Germany’s Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung, said the book is an impeccable force towards the preservation of traditional knowledge systems within the influences of constantly evolving global social transitions.
