Vishü Rita Krocha Kohima | November 20 Although relatively new in Nagaland, ‘Spoken Word Poetry’ is an art that is gaining momentum around the world and is used by many poets to give voice to social issues as much as it is used to inspire people. Unheard of in the State until recently, The Four Felons, a group of university students comprising of Shürhonuo Tsürho, Dzüvinguno Dorothy Chasie, Akule Lasuh, and Inatoli Jimo have given rise to the slam poetry movement in the State with their coming together in May 2016. The Four Felons, as they call themselves, “strongly believe in the equality of all people irrespective of gender, blood, or wealth.” While they have been vocal about different issues of importance through Spoken Word Poetry, poems to further voice their beliefs on feminism, equality, faith, and hope are in the pipeline. The four students, currently pursuing their M.A in English at Nagaland University, Meriema, were first introduced to ‘Spoken Word Poetry’ by Dr. Vizovono Elizabeth of English Department, Baptist College Kohima during their college days. Then, they decided that it would be a grand stepping stone in their lives in overcoming stage fright and "to make you realize, make us realize" (from 'The Four Felons: An Introduction) the potential of every person to achieve -what is only once called- the impossible. The Four Felons have also tried Capella with success even as they continue to experiment with other forms of expression. In their words, “Spoken Word is a great tool to practice writing and speaking skills, stage presence, acting, and memory power.” “Anyone can do it if they think they have something worth sharing, and letting people know that is one of our main objectives,” they convey. The group first performed in May this year at the Nagaland University Farewell Ceremony for their seniors at State Academy Hall, Kohima. Among others, they also staged performance at 'The Heritage' during the NBCC Youth Department Annual Students' Meet apart from the book launch of 'A Quaint Little Village' written by Rovi Chasie at Alder College, Kohima. Expressing their desire to perform in front of as many diverse audiences as possible, not only for them to gain confidence but to share their thoughts and ideas, The Four Felons put across that they are also eager to perform at the upcoming Bookworm Fest scheduled to be held at APO Hall, Kohima from November 29 to December 5, 2016.
