Every elder who passes takes a library with them.

The folk tales of the Rengma Naga people were never written down. They lived in voices — passed from grandmother to grandchild, from village elder to the next generation.

But voices fade.

This May, Dr. Wichamdinbo Mataina, Assistant Professor of Linguistics at Tetso College, made his way through 11 villages across Tseminyu District — recorder in hand, notebook open — sitting with elders and storytellers, listening carefully, and putting their words on record.

From Tseminyu Town to Zisunyu. Four days. Many stories. A small but meaningful step toward keeping them alive.

We don't know how many stories have already been lost. But we're grateful for every elder who opened their door, shared their memory, and trusted us with their words.

Supported by the Tetso Innovation & Impact Research Grant (TIIRG), this is our quiet attempt to do right by the community we call home.

There is still so much to document. The work continues. 🕰️