84th death anniv of Khasi laureate observed in city
SHILLONG, Dec 18: Arts and Culture Minister Paul Lyngdoh has accentuated the need to recognise U Soso Tham, a prominent literary figure and poet laureate of Khasi literature, as a role model for the youths of Meghalaya, especially in challenging times.
Addressing a programme, which was organised at the U Soso Tham Auditorium here on Wednesday to observe the 84th death anniversary of U Soso Tham, Lyngdoh said, “The name of Soso Tham stands at the pinnacle of literary excellence, and we are here to honor not just his work but also his spirit that continues to inspire generations.”
Paying rich tributes to the poet, the minister also reflected on U Soso Tham’s lasting contributions to Khasi literature, highlighting his works such as Ki Poetry Khasi, Duitara Ksiar and Ki Sngi Barim U Hynniewtrep.
Lyngdoh also acknowledged U Soso Tham’s pioneering role in secular literature and his use of Khasi idioms to translate Aesop’s Fables, marking a significant milestone in the literary history of the state.
Organised by the Department of Arts and Culture, the event was also attended by Governor CH Vijayashankar.
It may be mentioned that in line with the commemorative event, the department also organised various competitions from December 16-17, including poetry recitation, writing, quizzes, singing and painting.
These competitions—held under the theme ‘U Soso Tham a la ngam sha ki Thei jong Ka Mynnor ban pynioh pat in ki Mavlynnai jong ka ha ka Pateng kaba Myota’ (Soso Tham dived into the past to retrieve its treasures for the present generation)—encouraged students from various schools, including Bethany Society, to engage in the celebration of his legacy.
The event also saw the felicitation of the 2014 State Literary Award recipients for their outstanding contributions to Khasi and Garo literature.
The awardees included (L) Dr IS. Shangpliang, author of Ka Noh Ka Likai (Aiu Ka Pharshi), and Leylian R Marak, author of Kan.dikgipa Dakmesokanirang.
