In a recent book launch at Dimapur’s New Hope Cafe, ‘Food Journeys’ emerged as a compelling compilation of stories, offering an intimate exploration of Northeast India’s culinary cultures. Conceptualized by Dolly Kikon and co-edited with Joel Rodrigues, the book weaves together the narratives of chefs, poets, activists, artists, writers, and researchers from the region. The contributors delve into how food serves as a source of joy and strength amid a complex history, highlighting its integral role in the region’s politics, history, and community.
Naga anthropologist and author Dolly Kikon, along with Joel Rodrigues, a postdoctoral researcher from Stockholm University, presented their essays alongside contributions from a diverse group of writers, including four Nagas. The book launch featured engaging discussions with contributors Yanbeni Yanthan and Neivikhotso Chaya, offering insights into their essays.
Yanthan, also known as Beni Sumer Yanthan, shared the essence of her essay, ‘Mapping the self through a legacy of food,’ expressing how she navigates life and self-discovery through the lens of food. Chaya’s contribution, titled ‘My journey with rice beer,’ shed light on the discrimination faced by rice beer sellers and challenged societal norms.
The book serves as a mirror reflecting the depth, richness, and wisdom embedded in the indigenous food culture of Northeast India. Despite historical misconceptions, Kikon emphasized the book’s role in dispelling the notion of parochialism, showcasing the diverse and profound food traditions of the region.
In recent years, there has been a notable shift, with Northeastern cuisine finding its place in certain segments of the Indian palate. Kikon and Rodrigues highlighted this as a validation of the region’s rich ecological and cultural diversity. Beyond celebrating the food itself, the book vividly portrays the daily lives of those involved in producing, cooking, and consuming it.
Politician, author, and poet Mmhonlumo Kikon, present at the launch, hailed the book as a milestone, not just in documentation but as a gateway to the stories and people connected to the culinary cultures of Northeast India. ‘Food Journeys’ emerges as a poignant exploration of the region’s culinary heritage, bridging the gap between diverse food habits and fostering a deeper understanding of Northeast India’s cultural richness.
