Shillong, Nov 21: Riti Academy released two books, capturing the essence of Khasi heritage and contemporary thought, at the Tri Hills Ensemble on Thursday.
The event, held at the inaugural function, was attended by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Minister for Arts and Culture Paul Lyngdoh and Head of India for the Welsh Government and British High Commission, Mumbai, Mitchell Theaker.
Out of the three books unveiled during the ceremony, two were published by Riti Academy. The first was KOT: Khasi Old Testament, written by Raphael Warjri, and the second, U Spor na Thwei Pyrkhat, penned by Banjop Leo Gregory Kharmalki. Both works offer unique insights into the Khasi culture, blending literary expression with deep-rooted traditions.
KOT: Khasi Old Testament is a bilingual narrative that brings to life the rich tapestry of Khasi myths, legends and folktales. The book is presented in both English and Khasi, with the English narrative offering a chronological exploration of Khasi folklore while the Khasi portion features consecutive folk poems that preserve the beauty of the Khasi language. Warjri’s work serves as both a cultural archive and a literary celebration, ensuring that these ancient stories are not lost to time.
U Spor na Thwei Pyrkhat is a deeply personal collection of poems written in Khasi, drawn from years of reflection and lived experiences. Kharmalki’s work delves into themes of nature, society and personal growth, with each poem reflecting on the author’s evolving thought processes as he navigates his encounters with the world around him.
Both books were warmly received by the audience, marking a significant milestone in the promotion and preservation of Khasi literature.
