HT Correspondent
HAMREN, Aug 21: The release of “Introduction to Tiwa Grammar”, a book authored by Dr Virginia Dawson, associate professor of Western Washington University, USA, marked a historic moment for Tiwa literature. The book launch took place at the Shikdamakha Indoor Stadium in Amri, West Karbi Anglong, in a function that celebrated the contribution of Dr Dawson to the development of the Tiwa language.
Dr Virginia Dawson, an Australian national residing in the USA, has been deeply involved in learning the Tiwa language over the past seven years during her visits to Umswai, West Karbi Anglong. Her dedication and efforts have led to the creation of “Introduction to Tiwa Grammar,” which is poised to make a significant impact on the preservation and growth of the Tiwa language.
The event was graced by the presence of D Uphing Maslai, the executive member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), who hailed the release of the book as a historic moment in Tiwa literature. He acknowledged the significance of this achievement, highlighting that it’s the second instance of a foreign national contributing to Tiwa literature. The first was Fr M Balawan, who became a French national in 1975 and authored a book in Tiwa.
Dr Virginia Dawson expressed her gratitude to those who assisted her in learning the Tiwa language, including Bibiana Maslai, Mary Maslai, Olphindro Malang, and others. She expressed her fondness for the Tiwa people and their language, remarking on the sweetness of the Tiwa language.
“I love the Tiwa people and Tiwa language is very sweet. I want to come back again to take up another project in Tiwa language,” said Dr. Virginia Dawson.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Dipendra Nath Bordoloi, president of Tiwa Mathonlai Tokhra (TMT), and Bidyut Bikash Senapati, secretary of TMT. Also present were Lalsing Madar, former president of TMT, Bhasha Sanman Awardee Horsing Kholar, and other notable personalities.
The release of “Introduction to Tiwa Grammar” not only signifies the dedication of Dr. Virginia Dawson to the Tiwa language but also paves the way for the further enrichment and promotion of Tiwa literature and culture.
