CHOWKHAM, Feb 15: The RIWATCH Centre for Mother Languages (RCML) released a bilingual book, Singpho Folksongs, during the 41st Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi celebrations. The book was formally unveiled by Urban Development & Land Management Minister Balo Raja in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and MLA Jekke Tako, Advisor for Power (Electrical).
Compiled by Dr Vilhousienuo Neli, Singpho Folksongs is an effort to preserve the oral traditions of the Singpho community. The book includes a collection of traditional folksongs such as Mam Htu Saiwa, Mang Shyup, Shayaw Goi, and Ngwi Sarin, presented in the Singpho language with English translations. The initiative aims to safeguard the poetic expressions of the Singpho language and ensure their transmission to future generations.
RIWATCH executive director Vijay Swami, speaking at the event, highlighted the importance of mother languages in preserving cultural identity. He underscored the need to integrate indigenous languages and traditions into academic curricula, stating that linguistic preservation is crucial for passing cultural heritage to younger generations.
Raja lauded the Singpho community's efforts in preserving its traditions and emphasized the role of the mother tongue in cultural heritage. He commended RIWATCH for its initiative in promoting linguistic awareness and preservation.
Tako acknowledged the significance of documenting Singpho folksongs, calling it a crucial step toward cultural preservation. He urged the community to expand efforts to document other aspects of their heritage, ensuring a comprehensive record for future generations.
Mein, the chief patron of the event, reflected on his long-standing association with RIWATCH and commended the work of its team in preserving indigenous languages and cultures. He stressed that research institutions like RIWATCH should be strengthened and protected, encouraging young scholars to undertake research-driven initiatives for cultural preservation.
He also advocated for greater emphasis on research and development to support scholars across various fields.
The event was attended by deputy director of DHS Toko Lakshmi Balo, MLAs Kamlung Mosang, Mutchu Mithi, Mohesh Chai, Punyu Apum, Nikh Kamin, and Zingnu Namchoom, along with Padma Shri awardee Rajni Kant.
The release of the book marks a significant step in RCML’s ongoing efforts to document, preserve, and promote the linguistic and cultural heritage of the Singpho community.