The Assam Sahitya Sabha has already elected its new governing body this year, ahead of the 75th Biennial Session. Kuladhar Saikia, former DCP of Assam Police, would be assuming the position of the president. Saikia has donned many hats over the years. A former consultant at the World Bank, Saikia is a writer and an IPS officer who went on to become Assam’s top cop and has now been elected to head the State’s top literary body. He will assume office for a two-year term in the next biennial session and will be the 103rd president of the apex literary body. The 61-year-old writer had won the prestigious Sahitya Akademi award for his short story collection ‘Akaxor Sobi Aru Onyannya Golpo’ (Picture of the Sky and other tales) in 2015. We got in touch with Saikia to know more about his plans for the Assam Sahitya Sabha.
Congratulations on being elected as the President of the Assam Sahitya Sabha. What were your initial reactions? How have you been associated with the Sabha in the past?
Thank you. I am delighted to be engaged with one of the oldest literary organizations in India. I think I can carry on the legacy of the Sabha as I have had a knack for writing since my days at college I have always engaged myself with the Sabha, directly or indirectly. My book ‘Akaxor Sobi Aru Onyannya Golpo’ was adored by the Assam Sahitya Sabha. This will be a golden opportunity for me to work for the Sabha.
As the president, what are your plans for the Assam Sahitya Sabha?
This story is from the February 2020 edition of Eclectic Northeast.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February 2020 edition of Eclectic Northeast.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Time For Home Improvement!
Here are some home improvement projects that even absolute beginners will get right
Coping With Anxiety
Here are a few ways that you can deal with anxiety that you may be feeling because of the on-going pandemic
The Spread Continues
According to official reports, African Swine Fever has killed more than 1,700 pigs in Mizoram
Take the Unexplored Path
If you are looking for an underrated destination to explore this year, plan a trip to the charming town of Likabali
The Lotus Blooms Again
The Congress-led grand alliance bites dust in Assam as BJP retains power again in 2021
Painting Heritage
An up-and-coming artist from Nagaland wants to share his culture and heritage through works of art
MUSINGS OF A SOLDIER: TIT-BITS
People often ask me about my life out of uniform. Honestly, I have had no problems. Not so far. Instead, I find it quite refreshing. No routine, no parades, no briefing, no impending operations. Having donned the uniform since the age of thirteen until I hung up my boots last year, could I ever visualize life out of uniform? Not really. But, as I said, the transition has been quite smooth–no hang-overs, no regrets. People have been very positive in their interactions. Government departments have been responsive whenever I have approached for assistance.The genuine respect for the uniform is quite evident and it makes my heart swell with pride. Arunachal, to that extent, is the most nationalistic state in the country, I daresay. It has been kind of a revelation for me to experience the freedom of being a common man in an environment of positivity!
Look Good, Feel Good!
Here are four cruelty-free makeup brands that deserve a spot in your vanity bag
Face-to-Face With Conflict
In ‘Bulletproof: A Journalist’s Notebook on Reporting Conflict’, award winning journalist and author Teresa Rehman shares her experience of reporting from a conflict-ridden region
Bringing the Family Together
Tabletop games will encourage your family to take some time away from the screen and reconnect with each other