Arts and Culture Minister AL Hek today said that Khasi literature could never have reached the level where it is today if it were not for the famous poet Soso Tham.
Hek was speaking at the 80th death anniversary of Soso Tham, organised by the Arts and Culture Department at U Soso Tham Auditorium.
“He was a teacher, a thinker, a poet and his famous works are ‘Ka Duitar Ksiar’ and ‘Ki Sngi Barim u Hynñiewtrep’. He was the first person to use Khasi idioms in his work ‘Ki Phawer U Aesop’. During his era it was known as the golden age in the history of Khasi literature,” Hek said.
The minister also said that Soso Tham’s ability to shape his talent through his Khasi writings elevated the language, especially in the field of poetry.
He also urged the youth of the state to turn towards Soso Tham and seek inspiration from his works to reach their goals, especially in their times of struggles.
Director of Arts and Culture, W. Nongsiej, said, “Even though Soso Tham came from a poor family, he was elevated to the position of king of Khasi poets and many poets turn to him to seek inspiration. He is the pride of not only the indigenous people of Khasi-Jaintia Hills but the state as a whole,” he said.
