Guwahati: Two children’s books from Meghalaya, “The Tunes of Kongthong” and “When a Huro Sings,” have garnered international recognition at the prestigious Bologna Book Fair in Italy.
Authored by Auswyn Winter Japang and Nandan Joshi respectively, with illustrations by P Mario K Pathaw and Imlijungshi Ltr, these works were showcased at the National Book Trust (NBT) Exhibit.
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This achievement stems from the Forgotten Folklore Project, a Sauramandala Foundation initiative dedicated to preserving Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage.
The project curates traditional stories and folklore into children’s books, aiming to educate younger generations and instil cultural pride.
Storywell Books, the publisher, nominated the books for the Bologna Book Fair to share Meghalaya’s unique folklore with a global audience.
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“We are thrilled about the future of the Forgotten Folklore Project,” said Lanu Tsudir, the project’s director.
She emphasizes the importance of showcasing Meghalaya’s cultural heritage on the international stage.
The project has curated 45 storybooks encompassing traditional tales, folklore, and practices from across Meghalaya’s three regions.
Preserving these stories not only safeguards cultural memory but also fosters a connection to these roots in future generations.
The National Book Trust, recognizing the significance of promoting indigenous literature, celebrates this achievement.
The physical presence of these books at the Bologna Book Fair provides a global platform for Meghalaya’s vibrant folklore and traditions, said one of the organisers.