Author of ‘Trophies And Survival’ Hikano H Awomi (right) during the book-signing after his debut book launch held at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur on May 21. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | May 21
A debut book titled “Trophies And Survival” authored by Hikano H Awomi was formally launched today by Hukiye Tissica, Proprietor of Naga Construction, here at Hotel Saramati, Super market.
The book is a work of literary fiction set in the days of old in the Naga context when men hunted heads as trophies. It is a retelling of the past passed on by his grandparents and the village elders. Published by Heritage Publishing House, it is a story of crime, tragedy and betrayal.
“To become an author, unless a person has the determination, devotion and has made a bold decision to brave all odds and make his dreams a reality, it is not possible, and Awomi has done just that,” said Tissica in his speech. He commended the young author in making his first appearance amongst the young Naga writers’ society. Tissica also encouraged all the educated youths to give back to the society instead of being a liability.
Stating that this is only the beginning to greater achievements in the future, he encouraged Awomi by saying that “as long as you are trying, God is there to bless you.”
Giving a review on the book, Viboli Kiba, author of the poem ‘Wish for a Rainbow,’ said that the book is based on the cultural practices of the Naga society and that Awomi has given the readers the freedom of imagination. “The author has not given a particular tribe or a people, so that we will enjoy the book without thinking which tribe it might be,” she elaborated.
She said that the characters are few and the author has given equal standing to both the male and female ones. Kiba also said that he has given an intriguing personality to the protagonist. The first half of the story talks about the struggles of the protagonist and the society in general, while the second half sees a huge turn of events and ultimately makes the protagonist come to a realization, which opens a new era of life. She added that the story has a lot of facts and figures in the Naga context.
“Our Naga forefathers were poets and inventors of stories,” said Awomi in his brief note to an audience of families and well wishers. He believed that the story was always stored in his heart which led him to start writing this book a few years back. “It has a strong connection to our roots,” he said.
Awomi acknowledged all the families and well wishers who have constantly supported him through this journey. He also thanked everyone who came even from Kohima to witness the book launch. Hoping that the book will find a way in the readers’ hearts, he requested the reading and the writing community to continue to support him in the future.
While expressing delight in publishing another literary work from a young author, Lanusangla Tzudir, Publisher, Heritage Publishing House (HPH) encouraged Awomi to continue creating art and wished him all the best in his career.
The 236-page book is priced at Rs 450 and is made available for sale from today. The author can be reached on his facebook account – Hikano Hkkill Awomi and on his Instagram account – @hikanohawomi.
