Home to numerous tribes, Nagas are celebrated for their rich oral tradition. This tradition not only covers the societal cosmology but also underscores the profound bond with the surrounding natural world. While Nagaland’s presence in the literary world may be relatively young compared to other Indian states, there are indeed valuable books worth exploring from the region.
Let us look at some notable literary works of our own beloved authors which are masterpieces. Doesn’t matter if you are an avid reader or a starter and you are in quest of some books penned by Naga authors to kick start your reading journey- you have landed in the right place.
Today we bring you a list of recommended books which are easily readable and are a perfect blend of deep insights about Nagaland, its culture, history, customs and traditions and the shape shifting culture as an impact of modernity and changing socio-political scenarios.
1 A terrible Matriarchy- Easterine Kire
The first on the list is “A Terrible Matriarchy” by Easterine Kire. Published in 2007, this book follows the journey of a little girl Lieno as she navigates her path to adulthood within a household ruled by a challenging matriarchy that inadvertently perpetuates aspects of Patriarchy.
Set in the 1970’s and ‘80’s’ in an Angami Village, the book evokes a range of emotions on the readers as it sheds light on the position and significance of women, regardless of age,within a patriarchal Angami society. It offers an effortless reading experience owing to its simple and captivating narrative.
2. Once upon a Time in Kohima- Konaei Shongdok
Set in a fictional Post Naga Independence era, this book introduces the readers to Adrenal Naga, a noir character, and the courageous Issa Zore.
Adrenal Ghonskod Naga is a former leader of an Insurgent Faction and also a murder convict who is just released from a National prison in Bay of Bengal while Issa Zore Lützo is a writer of a renowned academy who is assigned a project to document Sir Adrenal’s challenging journey. The story unfolds within this unique backdrop as the characters face each other at Mt.Japfü, the highest point of Kohima.
Shongdok’s narrative is marked by both clever wit and humour, skillfully weaving in scientific facts at precisely the right moments. Once you are drawn into the book’s pages it is a delightful challenge to tear yourself away.
3. Teacher Man- Sentilong Ozukum
As the title suggests, the book is about a Mathematics teacher Shisalemba. Shisa is assigned to a remote and distant location called Sangtor village. He exhausts every possible avenue to evade the prospect of heading to the far-flung and under developed village. Yet, circumstances eventually force him to make the journey.
The journey of Shisa becoming a teacher in Sangtor Village is truly inspiring. The author humourously addresses the underlying issues of contemporary Naga society through the perspective of Shisa. The book conveys a message about the educational gap caused by educated youth hesitating to teach in remote regions. This education divide impede societal progress and growth at large.
4.These Hills called Home- Temsula Ao
These Hills called Home by our beloved Lt. Temsula Ao is a beautiful collection of short stories. These stories are set amidst a period of political turmoil in Nagaland. Although the stories are fictional, it paints the vivid images of bewildering and heart-wrenching experiences at the hands of Indian Armed Forces post Indian Independence.
This Omnibus is a must read at least once in your lifetime. It offers brief glimpse into the agonizing struggles and unwavering determination of Naga people who endured the merciless onslaught of politically turbulent times. Even if we are fortunate enough not to have lived through such harrowing circumstances ourselves, this book lends us a poignant and empathetic insight into the heart breaking realities not more than a century ago.
5. The lost Mission- Pekingto Y Jimo
This non-fiction book accounts the stories of unsung heroes of the Naga Mission to China, 1967-69. It is a documentation of the unimaginable struggles and sacrifices of Naga Army for the freedom of Naga People which words alone cannot adequately convey.
The Lost Mission provides a perspective account of the Naga Army members and their involvement in the Naga Political issue during that time. The book documents the courage of the Naga Army in the jaws of death, miracles, survivorship and betrayal. It also provide insights on the various faction and their divisions.
Spoiler Alert
The 312 brave men encountered the Burmese Armed Forces on their way to China and fought over 20 gunfights. They accomplished the mission and reached home victorious only to find out that they were betrayed.
You better get the tissues ready!
We hope you enjoy reading!
The books are available on Amazon and Ilandlo.
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