Keditsu’s children’s book ‘Wrestling Day’ released at White Owl Book Fair

As part of the White Owl Book Fair, renowned author and academic T Keditsu launched her latest children’s book Wrestling Day on April 16, 2025, at The Heritage, Kohima. The book, which intertwines cultural heritage with themes of friendship, perseverance, and identity, was jointly released by the Special Guest, Director of Information & Public Relations Dzuvinuo Theünuo, and Venüzo Dawhuo, the 2025 NWA Open Naga Wrestling Champion.

Speaking at the launch, Director Theünuo praised the book as a creative and impactful addition to children’s literature. She highlighted the challenges of writing for young readers, especially in creating stories that resonate with both children and adults, a feat she said Keditsu accomplished with notable success. Theünuo also commended the book’s vibrant illustrations and the use of colour, which she felt enriched the storytelling and made the reading experience more engaging for children.

She pointed out that creating a children’s book requires the same level of care and commitment as writing a full-length novel and expressed appreciation for Keditsu’s literary contribution. Reflecting on the cultural relevance of Naga wrestling, Theünuo spoke of the annual event at Khuochiezie Ground as a cherished tradition in the Tenyimia community. She also acknowledged Viketuno Rio, Director of The White Owl, for organizing the fair and fostering a culture of reading in Nagaland.

Author T Keditsu shared her concerns about the gradual disappearance of indigenous sports like Naga wrestling in modern society. She attributed this to formal education and class divides and emphasized the importance of preserving traditional practices through storytelling for children. She described Wrestling Day as a personal tribute to her childhood and the wrestling culture of her neighbourhood, dedicated to her grandfather.

Kezhalelie Keretsü, Managing Director of Bout Lords Nagaland, also addressed the gathering on the theme ”My Journey in Naga Wrestling”, reflecting on the evolution of indigenous sports and the role of inclusive storytelling in cultural preservation.

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 launch was chaired by Asalie Peseyie, and the event concluded with a book signing by T Keditsu.

MT