In the ongoing celebrations of 40th Foundation Day of Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya a colloquium on “Oral and Literary Traditions of Nagaland” was organised at rock art shelter conference hall of IGRMS. The keynote speaker of the colloquium was eminent anthropologist and author, Padamshri Prof. Temsula Ao. She is currently the chairperson of Nagaland Sate Commission for Women and recipient of Sahitya Akademi Award for her collection of short stories. Talking about the literature of Nagaland and oral culture, Prof. Ao said “Since the ancient times to the present, in Nagaland the oral literature is the primary one”. Explaining the importance of oral traditions she said “No classic writing of the world came directly in writing, they (classics) came through oral folklores and were written and published with the development in the technology. So these epics are not free of errors and anomalies”.  On this occasion Prof. Temsula Ao narrated three of her famous poetries including – Thousand depths and Bonsai Pot.
The Principal of Kohima Science College and renowned anthropologist, Dr Anungla Aier gave a power point presentation on “Origin of various customary practices art crafts, myths and legends of and migration” and explained in detail. An author and educationist, Mrs Agnes Krocha narrated a story, entitled as “SOPFUNUO” written by her which explains the situation of women in Nagaland and the community feeling at large.
Recipient of Chameli Devi Journalism award and first female editor of Nagaland, Mrs. Monalisa Changkiza participated in the colloquium and praised the developing literary skills of the youth of Nagaland and informed that now the Naga youth is doing exemplary work in their chosen fields. On this occasion, Anthopoligist, Ms. Phezing Konyak and Photographer from Netherland, Mr. Peter Bos explained the Tattoo culture of Nagaland and its socio-religious importance and present scenario.
In this colloquium former Director of IGRMS, Dr K.S. Negi and educationists like Prof Amareshwar Galla, Prof Sucheta Sen Chaudhuri and Prof Subho Roy shared their opinions on the subject. Earlier, Assistant Keeper of IGRMS Dr. R.M. Nayal gave the introductory speech. Director, IGRMS, Prof Sarit Kumar Chaudhuri chaired the colloquium and Dr. Surya Kumar Pandey (Assistant Keeper) coordinated the programme.

Date: March 28, 2016