Iknguira L. Shimray from Hunphun Village released her second book “Theiyo“. Rev Zaklei Kaping, Pastor of Phungyo Baptist Church on Saturday launched the book in a solemn programme held at Phungyo Baptist Church, Ukhrul.
Iknguira L. Shimray is a poet and educator from Hunphun village, a passionate writer and dedicated teacher. She composes primarily in Tangkhul language capturing the essence of Tangkhul culture, language, and lived experiences through verse. Her debut collection of Tangkhul poetry “Ängayung” was released in 2020. Her work reflects her deep connection to her roots and her commitment to preserving indigenous voices through literature.
When she is not writing, Iknguira devotes her time to shaping young minds as an educator, continuing her journey of both learning and teaching.
Interacting with the media, Iknguira L. Shimray stated “Today, I have launched my second book “Theiyo”. The title of the book is related to my first book, “Angayung” (meaning roots) which was released in 2020; that the first book has taken root and has come to fruition as “Theiyo” which means a good fruit. Theiyo is a book of poems, most of which are about our culture and to express the expansiveness of our language. The poems are to provoke the young minds and to share my deep concern as our culture slowly vanishes. Connected to that is also the celebration of the wealth that our land has bestowed on us.”
Speaking at the launching event, Shimreingam L. Shimray stated that “Economy and literature are the two criteria how the world defines the civilisation of the nation. In the North East region, the Mizos are the most advanced community in terms of literature.”
“Let us write poems, journal, history, on politics but in Tangkhul language. Tangkhul Literature Society is the guardian of our language. In the earlier days, other Naga tribes in Manipur used to look up to the Tangkhuls because of our rich literature. There is a rapid decline now. Time has come for the Tangkhuls to take a step into literature” added Shimreingam L Shimray
Special performance by Somayo Shingnaisui and Thanmipam Vasha, students of Alice Christian Higher Secondary School, Ukhrul and Horyaowon Pheirei, a student of KTL Excel Higher Secondary School, Ukhrul added more colour to the event. The books will be available at leading bookshops at Ukhrul Headquarters.
