Sylvanus Lamare delves into Khasi history at a session organised by Prabha Khaitan Foundation
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 13: Noted scholar and translator Sylvanus Lamare on Saturday shared rich insights into the evolution of Khasi literature, language, and history during an interactive session held under the Ka Umpohliew series, organised by the Prabha Khaitan Foundation in Shillong.
The session featured an engaging conversation between him and Streamlet Dkhar.
Speaking on his wide-ranging literary contributions, Dr Lamare reflected on his work across multiple genres, including poetry, song lyrics—some famously rendered by the late music legend, Gilbert Nongkynrih—short stories, critical writings, historical research, and essays.
Highlighting the uniqueness of the Khasi language, he noted that Khasi is perhaps the only tribal language to have a grammar written in German by H.C. von der Gabelentz, as well as dictionaries in Khasi and classical languages such as Greek, Aramaic, and Hebrew compiled by Sylvanus Sngi Lyngdoh.
Dr. Lamare drew from his research and explained how global conflicts had a direct bearing on local literature and education. He pointed out that World War I disrupted education in Shillong as German Salvatorian missionaries were compelled to leave, while World War II affected Khasi literary development following the departure of Italian missionaries, impacting academic and cultural growth directly and indirectly. He also spoke about his role in helping remove Khasi from the list of endangered languages.
On the long-standing demand for the inclusion of Khasi in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, Dr Lamare emphasised the need for a visible mass movement, wider adoption of Khasi as a medium of instruction across subjects, and focused advocacy for one language at a time.
Touching on socio-economic opportunities, he highlighted the potential of religious tourism at Nartiang to strengthen the local economy and benefit the state. Looking ahead, he revealed plans to revisit the Anglo-Khasi War of 1829 in his future research.
Thanking the audience for their thoughtful and engaging questions, the noted author also acknowledged the influence of his grandmother and several mentors, including Joseph Bacchiarello, H.W. Sten, Navakanta Baruah, and Frank Palmer, on his literary journey.
Prabha Khaitan Foundation is dedicated to promoting literature, education, the performing arts, culture, gender equality, and women’s empowerment through author interactions, book launches, literary festivals, and cultural events. Jyoti Agarwal and Pooja Goenka serve as the Foundation’s representatives in Shillong.
During the event, Kong Silbi Passah felicitated Dr Lamare and Prof Dkhar. Oil India Limited supports the Foundation’s initiatives across the Northeast.
