As part of the White Owl Book Fair, author and academic, T. Keditsu launched her new children’s book 'Wrestling Day', a story that blends cultural heritage with themes of friendship, perseverance, and identity, on 16th April 2025, at The Heritage, Kohima. The book was jointly released by Special Guest, Director, Information & Public Relations, Dzuvinuo Theünuo with Venüzo Dawhuo, NWA Open, Naga Wrestling Champion, 2025.
Speaking after the release, Director, IPR, Dzuvinuo Theünuo praised the book as a creative and impactful contribution to children’s literature. She emphasized the complexity of writing for young audiences, noting the unique challenge of addressing both children and adults within a single narrative. In her view, author Dr. T. Keditsu managed this balance with notable success.
Theünuo also drew attention to the book’s vibrant illustrations and its use of colour, underscoring how effective visual storytelling can enhance a child’s reading experience. She highlighted that crafting a children’s book often demands the same level of effort and dedication as writing a full-length novel for adults. She expressed her appreciation for the author’s work and encouraged continued literary contributions of similar value.
The annual event at Khuochiezie Ground has long drawn large crowds, and its significance remains deeply embedded in the collective memory of the region, she said. She further commented on the admiration and fascination for the sport which is so deeply ingrained in the Tenyimia community.
In addition, Theünuo acknowledged the efforts of Viketuno Rio, Director of The White Owl, for organizing the Book Fair that hosted the launch. She stressed the importance of such initiatives in fostering a culture of reading and making books more accessible to both young and older generations in Nagaland.
The author, T. Keditsu, reflected on the fading presence of indigenous sports like Naga wrestling in contemporary society. She highlighted the impact of formal education systems and class divides on the preservation of traditional practices, emphasizing the need for cultural storytelling, especially for children.
The author positioned children’s literature as a vital tool for language development and cultural awareness, underlining the role of adults in helping young readers see their own communities and values represented in stories. The book is also a personal tribute to her own childhood and the vibrant wrestling culture of her neighbourhood, and is dedicated to her grandfather.
With ‘Wrestling Day’, T. Keditsu invites readers to rediscover the importance of tradition through an engaging, age-appropriate story that ties together body, mind, and cultural memory.
Speaking on the theme “My Journey in Naga Wrestling,” Kezhalelie Keretsü, Managing Director of Bout Lords Nagaland, spoke about his experiences in the field. Keretsü’s remarks underscored the evolving landscape of indigenous sport in Nagaland and the importance of inclusive storytelling in preserving and promoting cultural identity.
Director and Proprietor of The White Owl, Viketuno Rio shared insights into the journey of the White Owl Book Fair stating that it was founded with the goal of rekindling a love for reading, writing, and listening through engaging literary experiences. She further mentioned that after Kohima, the book fair is set to continue to Mokokchung. While the team has already visited multiple schools in Kohima, the current event marks their first time hosting a public literary fair in the city, expanding their efforts to make literature more accessible and engaging for a wider audience. The book fair will continue in Kohima till 19th April and it will begin on 21st April in Mokokchung.
The launching programme was chaired by Asalie Peseyie, who also expressed his enthusiasm for literature and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. As part of the event, author T. Keditsu signed copies of her book ‘Wrestling Day’, creating a memorable experience for readers, particularly the young students in attendance, who were enthusiastic to engage with the story and its creator.
(Takumpula Longkumer, IA)
