Kohima: Nagaland-based PenThrill Publication released “A Country With No Home” by Lozaan Khumbah, a Mizoram-based Manipur Naga poet, on Friday. The book was unveiled by Alice Yhoshü, President of the Kohima Press Club (KPC), at The Book Home in Kohima.
Lozaan Khumbah, who holds a PhD in Geography from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi, is a native of Tamenglong, Manipur, and currently teaches in Aizawl, Mizoram.
During a conversation with Bauna Panmei, Assistant Professor of History at Japfü Christian College, Khumbah shared insights into his poetic journey and the inspiration behind his debut book- a collection of 40 poems.
Khumbah revealed that poetry comes naturally to him and is a form of self-expression that began during his school years. He credited the strong English base in Northeast Indian schools for sowing the seeds of his love for poetry.
Reflecting on his time at JNU, Khumbah noted that the politically active campus environment made him aware of power dynamics and government policies, which influenced his writing.
Khumbah described his poetry as dark, angry, and protest-oriented. “A Country With No Home”, he said, captures the haunting sense of not belonging, a feeling prevalent among the Zo community in Manipur amid ongoing conflicts.
Although the book does not directly mention the current turmoil, he said that it echoes the sentiments of people struggling to find a sense of home and belonging.
Khumbah emphasised that understanding India is crucial for the Nagas to know themselves. He observed that many mainland Indians may prefer Northeast Indians to remain uncritical of the central government, focusing instead on cultural and fashion accolades.
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For Khumbah, writing is an act of resistance, and publishing his work is an act of courage. His collection of poems explores friendship, home and belonging in the face of the rapidly changing socio-political realities.
Launching the book, KPC president Alice Yhoshü praised Khumbah’s poetry for its personal depth, creativity, and artistry. She commended his engaging and relatable writing style, noting that his work is honest, alive, and resonates deeply. Yhoshü encouraged Khumbah to continue writing and wished him the best for his future endeavours.
The book launching ceremony was chaired by Penthrill publisher Vishü Rita Krocha.
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