Dimapur, October 6 (MExN): A book, ‘Myths of the Hills’ which is an English translation of ‘Tar Nunger Otsü’ by Talitemjen Imchen was released today at NEZCC by the Director, Lipokmar Tzudir.
He considered the content of the book as a ‘rich storehouse of knowledge’ while also stressing on the importance of myths. It is difficult to concretize the ‘knowledge’ that is informed through various aspects of our oral history and culture and thereby a sort of vacuum is created. And myths, though it cannot be scientifically proved, serves as a repository of not only filling up that vacuum but also serves as continuity in the construction of our oral history. He lauded the efforts of the author as well as the translators and editors in making this translated volume possible. The author of the book Talitemjen thanked NEZCC for seeing value in the book and sponsoring for the printing. He also profusely thanked the translators Anenla Jamir, Dr. Chubatola Aier and Dr. Asangba Tzudir for taking this work to a larger readership and also thanked the Publisher and Chief Editor Dr Lanusangla for publishing this book. Dr. Asangba Tzüdir, one of the translators, highlighted the difficulty of creating that oral vibrancy through the written work besides the danger of mistranslating cultural terms and finding the right word equivalent so as to maintain the cultural context and connectedness with the past.
“This translated volume will not only liven the cultural vibrancy but also hopes to revive the culture of storytelling among the Nagas especially youngsters,” stated a press release.
Published by Heritage Publishing House, this book will be available at the following outlets:
• Dimapur: Heritage Publishing House, Christian Literature Center, Modern Book Depot, Om Books.
• Kohima: Western Book Depot
• Mokokchung: Eastern Book Depot & Students Book Center and
• Changtongya Town: Classmate
