Author T Keditsu with Dzüvinuo Theunuo, Director, DIPR and renowned Naga wrestler Venüzo Dawhuo at the launch of Wrestling Day on April 16 at The Heritage, DC Bungalow, Kohima. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Kohima | April 16
A new children’s book celebrating Naga wrestling and local heritage was launched today at The Heritage, DC Bungalow in Kohima, as part of the ongoing White Owl Book Fair. T Keditsu, author and academician, officially released Wrestling Day, a picture book illustrated by Rishita Loitongbam and published by Duckbill Books.
The book tells the story of Aneingu, a young girl preparing to wrestle for the first time, supported by her friend Areiu. Set against the backdrop of Nagaland, the narrative draws inspiration from traditional Naga wrestling, aiming to introduce young readers to the sport’s cultural and communal significance.
During the launch, Keditsu expressed concern over the decline of traditional practices like Naga wrestling, attributing it to increasing class divisions and the prioritization of Western education models. She emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge systems and creating literature that reflects local identities.
“Writing for children should be an act of providing mirrors, letting children see themselves and their world reflected back at them,” Keditsu stated, advocating for greater adult involvement in producing culturally rooted children’s literature.
Dzüvinuo Theunuo, Director of the Department of Information and Public Relations, officially released the book.
Theunuo explained how writing for young audiences is complex while noting the unique challenge of addressing both children and adults within a single narrative. At the same time, writing a children's book requires equal creativity and vision to that of a book for adults.
She noted the book’s potential to resonate with both children and adults by evoking memories and values associated with wrestling in the region.
Also speaking at the event, Kezhalelie Keretsü, Managing Director of Bout Lords Nagaland, reflected on the historical exclusion of women from wrestling arenas, a practice he said is gradually changing. He acknowledged progress in the sport’s inclusivity but noted lingering societal hesitations among women due to long-standing taboos.
Prominent Naga wrestler Venüzo Dawhuo made a special appearance at the event, while White Owl Director Viketuno Rio shared insights into the book fair. Asalie Peseyie chaired the programme, and a prayer was offered by the associate pastor of the Mao Baptist Church's youth ministry.
Wrestling Day is part of Duckbill Books’ “Hook Book” series, designed for readers aged five and above. The publisher is recognized as one of India’s leading children’s imprints.
