In her inaugural speech, Mizoram’s Director of Art & Culture Pi Boichhingpuii lamented the plight of today’s poets and felicitated them for keeping their literary sense alive in the face of adversities.
She said poets were neglected a lot today despite the fact that they hold the key to the recorded poetic history and future progress of society. In this regard, she encouraged the poets to voice for the people and expressed the need to carry the torch of culture in the form of poetry, music, song, dance and other forms of cultural activities.
Noel Manuel, coordinator North East Region Poetry Society (India) who represented Nagaland reflected on how the mood of an individual could transform and change the environment in the society. He said “Our abilities should not be tutored by our moods, but more by the stability and consistency that we maintain” and called for consistency and stability in poetry writings and promotion of culture. He also said people have less idealistic and more realistic approach to poetry and poetry writings.
Terming how women played an important role in the society, Noel cited examples of important departments like the NEZCC and Department of Art and Culture Government of Mizoram being headed by women. Dr. Laltluangliana Khiangte said the need for the promotion of poetry and safeguarding the poets was the need of the hour.
Mizoram’s popular artist R.K. Vanlalpeksanga belted out an impressive Mizo rendition that added a special flavour to the event. The day long programme included readings, short speeches and interactions among the poets. The event was sponsored by the NEZCC and Department of Art & Culture Government of Mizoram