‘Gender Narratives: Reinterpreting Language, Culture and Tradition in Nagaland’ was released at Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung on October 9.
MOKOKCHUNG, OCTOBER 10 (MExN): The Department of English, Fazl Ali College hosted a book release programme for ‘Gender Narratives: Reinterpreting Language, Culture and Tradition in Nagaland’ on October 9.
The programme was chaired by Moangienla, Asstt Professor, Department of English, who quoted Ibrahim Babaginda, the former President of Nigeria who said, “With each new book, the march of our national history takes a step forward. When one is present at a book launch, one is bearing witness to the birth of a new body of ideas, to the coming into being of another testimony of history”.
A brief concept note was given by Bendangsenla, Asstt Professor, Department of English, FAC. She explained that the book is a compilation of papers by Naga researchers and academics. The focus is on the interplay of culture and tradition in Naga society and many of the papers address the power dynamics that address gender relations, the difference in power, status and access among the genders.
They also explore the works of contemporary Naga writers in english and coming up with in-depth analysis of how gender is represented and interpreted in terms of socio-cultural practices of Naga society.
“As is often the case in gender narratives, the institution of Patriarchy is held up to judgment. Its influence and sway over the practices of the people and society in general and Naga society in particular is deconstructed to uncover the differential customs and practices that encumbers women attaining equal status with men,” she stated.
The publisher, Dr Lanusangla Tzudir, Heritage Publishing House, Dimapur highlighted the significance of the book, and said that it is a negotiation of a long desired conversation on gender narratives in Nagaland and that it is the formulation of a Naga feminism. The book addresses issues that remain unaddressed and hopes that it will help the Naga community to imbibe an equal society.
The official book release was done by Sentilong Ozukum, SDO, Civil, Mokokchung. He also delivered a speech on the importance of education and financial empowerment to eradicate inequality. According to him, Nagas should not think that redefining culture will dilute the identity of the people because culture is dynamic. The speed with which a tribe or community adapts to changing times with the involvement of both genders’ participation will determine the advancement of a society, he said.
A dedicatory prayer was pronounced by Rev Lima Lemdur, Pastor, Union Church, FAC Campus. A reading was done by Dr Temjensosang Imsong, Professor & Head, Department of Sociology, NU. Dr Imsong gave a critical comment on the book, appreciating the objectivity of the writers and editors and how the book will be a point of reference for scholars and students. The session ended with concluding remarks by I Yashikala Jamir, Asstt Professor, Department of English, FAC.
