SHILLONG:
In a meaningful collaboration, the Sauramandala Foundation, the Department of English, and the SAC Central Library, all supported by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) at St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, celebrated the launch of six remarkable storybooks on October 20. This momentous event marked a significant step in The Forgotten Folklore Project.
The books were officially unveiled by Swapnil Tembe (IAS), the Director of the School of Education and Literacy, who was the chief guest, and Camelia Doreen Lyngwa, Director of Social Welfare Department, the guest of honour. They were joined by college teachers, students, and others, creating a vibrant atmosphere for this important occasion.
The launch showcased a diverse collection of books, each with its own distinct narrative and artistic flair. Among the unveiled titles are “The Tunes of Kongthong,” “The Magic in Pottery,” “Ambi’s Little Things,” “When a Huro Sings,” “Ilari’s Jaiñsem,” and “Scatter The Clouds.” These literary creations are works of the creative synergy of their contributors, including the project head Lanuangla Tsudir, talented illustrators Mario Pathaw, Casper Syiem, Imlijungshi Ltr, Phaoniu Shio, Samanda Nora Pyngrope, who not only authored but also illustrated, and the imaginative wordsmiths Nida Hynniewta, Eleanor Sangma, Auswyn Winter Japang, Nandan Joshi who made significant contributions as authors.
But why is The Forgotten Folklore Project so vital? It strives to fill a crucial gap by providing children in Meghalaya with culturally relevant stories. The project accomplishes this by carefully selecting and curating 45 local stories from the Khasi, Garo, and Jaiñtia communities.
At the heart of this noble endeavour is the Sauramandala Foundation, a non-profit organisation deeply committed to addressing the challenges faced by remote and vulnerable communities.
They do this through their innovative approach known as the Centre for Accelerated Development, which is built on the principles of collaboration, systems thinking, and human-centric design. In this way, the Foundation endeavours to bring positive change to the lives of those it serves.