Shillong, Sept 11: The Khasi Authors Society marked its 45th anniversary today with a grand celebration in Shillong. The event was held on the foundation day and was honored by the esteemed presence of Dr. Ricky A. J. Syngkon, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, who served as the chief guest. The ceremony was further distinguished by the presence of various dignitaries from the Khasi Authors Society.
In his address, Dr. Syngkon highlighted the significance of the occasion by recalling his maiden speech in Parliament, where he advocated for the inclusion of the Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
He underscored the importance of preserving and promoting local dialects within Khasi literature. Dr. Syngkon urged writers to resist the temptation of incorporating foreign terms into their works and to remain true to the richness of the Khasi language.
During the event, Dr. Syngkon honored eleven exceptional students for their outstanding achievements in the study of the Khasi language. The awards recognized top performers across various academic levels. The recipients included:
– **SSLC and ICSE:** Ribahunlang Lamarai, Ialammiki Lamare, Josiah Duncan Lyngdoh Mawphlang, Claudia Aurelia Khyriem, and Abigail Ioanna Suchiang.
– **HSSLC:** Pynbha Lynshiang, Menangmankhraw Kharkongor, Ferry Filarisha Wann, Ritilian Diengdoh, and Ar Meker Marpna.
– **BA:** Badaker Nengnong Daloi.
In addition to the awards, Dr. Syngkon released three significant publications: *Ka Antigone* by Hamles Mylliem Umlong, *Ka Kheiñkur Kheiñkha Khasi* by Raphael Warjri, and *The Megalithic Culture of Khasi Jaintia Hills* by Dr. Marco Babit Mitri.
The afternoon session featured a seminar titled “Shillong – Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.” Esteemed scholars including Dr. Desmond L. Kharmawphlang, Dr. Soloni Bareh, Bah Kitbor Nongrum, Bah Phrikshon Kharshiing, Dr. Kynpham Sing Nongkynrih, Bah Wansoon Kharkrang, and W. Norbert S. Jana Nongbet presented papers on the city’s evolution from the British colonial era to the present day.
The discussions focused on Shillong’s development, identifying past challenges, and proposing solutions for future progress. The seminar also marked the 150th anniversary of Shillong city, celebrating its rich history and future prospects.
The event was a testament to the Khasi Authors Society’s commitment to preserving and promoting the Khasi language and literature while reflecting on the historical and cultural journey of Shillong.
