MLCU celebrates International Decade of Indigenous Languages
Shilong, Nov 28: An event in the city celebrating the International Decade of Indigenous Languages has put the spotlight on the significance of preserving indigenous languages and cultures.
Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU) on Wednesday hosted a special event to recognize the importance of indigenous languages and cultures, where experts, students and faculty members took part in the programme held at the university campus in Nongrah.
The event featured Prof. Desmond L. Kharmawphlang and Damenshan G. Hynniewta.
Prof. Kharmawphlang, a renowned folklorist, poet, and academician, shared insights into the
significance of indigenous languages in folklore and oral traditions. With a distinguished career in folkloristics and representation of Indian folklore on the international stage, he is currently a
professor at North-Eastern Hill University in Shillong.
Hynniewta, a multifaceted theatre artiste, playwright, and composer, also engaged in discussions about the role of indigenous languages, particularly Khasi, Pnar, and Garo, in mainstream theatre.
Drawing from his vast experience in global and Indian theatre, including his involvement in London’s West End, he emphasized how theatre serves as a medium for language preservation.
The event showcased the richness of indigenous cultures through conversation, songs, food, and costumes.