“The Ancestral Voice: Yimkhiung Naga Tales and Stories” by Runshito Lim, marking the 116th publication of PenThrill, was released at Dr. Setu Memorial Hall, Alder College, Kohima on March 4.
Special guest Obed Quinker, Chairman of the Nagaland Bee-Keeping & Honey Mission, reflected on the stark contrast between education in the past and the present. He observed that during their time there was no proper educational infrastructure, and students had to struggle and learn independently, whereas today’s education system has evolved significantly, offering far greater opportunities. Encouraging aspiring writers, he urged them to write in ways that allow readers and listeners to relive the experiences they narrate. Stories, he said, must be re-narrated, retold, and relived to remain alive, emphasizing that a writer’s true strength lies in the ability to communicate effectively through their work.
In her publisher’s note, Vishü Rita Krocha, Publisher of PenThrill Publication House, shared that it had been some time since their last book launch and that this was their first publication of 2026, marking their 116th title—an exceptional work to begin the year. She described the book as a first-of-its-kind contribution from the Yimkhiung community and possibly a pioneering initiative in the state’s literary landscape.
Noting the rare and strong participation of the tribal literature board and tribal council, she expressed encouragement at the community’s support for the author, calling it a recognition of literature’s power in shaping society. Krocha added that the book reflects years of nurturing storytelling and celebrates the shared history and culture that bind the Naga people, highlighting a common thread of unity despite diverse tribal traditions.
Author Runshito Lim shared that his love for storytelling began in childhood while growing up with his maternal grandparents—his grandfather from Kidima and his late grandmother from Huker. Listening to their stories, especially the Yimkhiung folktales his grandfather collected from Huker and Chessore, shaped his passion. From his grandfather, he learned the art of listening, which inspired him to preserve and retell these stories.
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R Tohanba, Chairman of the Yimkhiung Literature Board and former Parliamentary Secretary, Government of Nagaland, and Laji Luyanba, General Secretary of the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC), also shared their thoughts. The programme began with an invocation by Rachel, Women Director of Yimkhiung Baptist Borü Kohima. Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, poet, academic and educator, presented the book review, while Lily, CED of Yimkhiung Baptist Borü Kohima, pronounced the benediction.
