Poem is the oldest form of literature: Thongchi
ITANAGAR, Mar 21: Poem is the oldest form of literature which facilitated better expression of feeling than in any other form, said Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society president and Sahitya Academy awardee Y D Thongchi.
Arunachal perhaps inked history today by celebrating World Poetry Day first in India as there is no record of its celebration, he said while addressing the young upcoming poets, creative writers in the celebration at Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum here on Wednesday. Though Lummer Dai is known as literary giant of Arunachal Pradesh, but three Arunchalees winning Sahitya Academy is not a matter of joke, he said.
Dr Takap Jirdo and Dr Jamuna Bini Tadar have decided to publish their books of poems in Galo and Nyishi respectively; he informed and announced that the APLS would facilitate publication of book written by any newcomer.
Members of APLS and The Wild Flowers Production (TWFP), besides upcoming poets one after another recited their self-composed poems in Hindi, Odiya, English, and numerous local languages to the applause of the gathering. Besides noted writer Ajanta, senior journalist Pradeep Kumar, RGU faculty Dr Tadar, journalist Mukul Pathak and research officer (on special duty) R N Koley; young talents Millo Anka, Kekho Thimkho, Tolum Chomchum, Dorjee, Chachu Dai, Nomi Mega Gumro, Yeshi Drema, Mridul Roy, Taka Sippi, Takam Mangha, Moduli Pulu, Depe Riram, Neelam Rupa, Jahnavi Gogoi through their presentation created a wave of literature that prompted Thongchi to term the occasion unbelievable.
“It is difficult to believe that such highly talented Arunachalees live amidst us,” Thongchi said, adding unique but sarcastic presentation of Kekho that to from remote Tirap district was unique.
The APLS in collaboration with TWFP celebrated the occasion. This Itanagar-based body has been formed recently by a group of young poets and creative writers, led by Karry Padu. It is credited with creating a series of poems, christened The Vivid Project – that was uploaded to YouTube and available in group’s webpage in same name.
