A special talk by Mmhonlumo Kikon, author of “His Majesty’s Headhunters”, was organised by the Centre for Naga Tribal Language Studies and the Department of English, Nagaland University, Kohima Campus informed a press release by the PRO, Nagaland University.
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The author discussed pertinent points about the book, and stated that his imperative to write the book was not to recall but “retell” and evoke history, and situate the present in the context of the past. By drawing on the history of neighbouring states such as Manipur, Kikon brought light into the relation that Kohima historically shared in particular with Gambhir Singh and the role he played in the capture of Kohima in the 19th century. He also spoke about how the Nagas challenged the mighty British, with just their weapons of sword and dao. By drawing on the historical relevance of places, Kikon also threw light on the Japanese incursions into present day Kohima and spoke about the similarity between A. Z. Phizo and Subhash Chandra Bose, in their anti-colonialism.
The discussion was met with a number of questions, remarks and feedback from historians, faculty and students.
Prof N. Das, Head of Department, Department of English, gave the welcoming address where
he stated that such a book is important for all scholars delving into Naga culture as it provides a good and comprehensive view of Naga history from an insider’s point of view.
The discussion was chaired by Dr Yanbeni Yanthan, Assistant Professor, Centre for Naga tribal Language Studies, who opined that given that the book was centred around the battle of Kohima, it gains more significance to have such a deliberation on the book in the town that carries its legacy. The discussion ended with a vote of thanks from the chairperson.
