Lummer Dai

At the beginning of Dai's literary journey was his article 'Aboror Rup Nuguche Kiyo?' published in the school magazine 'Giribani' during his student days in Pasighat. While pursuing higher education at Cotton College in Guwahati, Assam, he came into contact with distinguished literary figures like Birendra Kumar Bhattacharya, sparking his creative passion.

His first novel 'Paharor Xile Xile' (1961) is recognized as the inaugural novel penned by an Arunachalee, making a significant contribution to the genre in the state. Subsequent works by Dai, such as 'Prithivir Hanhi' (1963), 'Mon Aru Mon' (1968), 'Kanyar Mulya' (1978), and 'Upar Mahal' (2002), further solidified his reputation as a writer.

Although Dai wrote in Assamese due to the educational context of the time, his narratives were deeply imbued with the cultural heritage of his homeland. Through his stories, he provided a glimpse into the life and customs of Arunachal Pradesh, unveiling its hidden charm to the world. He was not only a storyteller but also a social critic, using his craft to address issues like child marriage, gender disparity, and corruption. Apart from his prose, Dai's impact extended to the realm of mass media. He was the founder and editor of 'Echo of Arunachal', the state's inaugural newsletter, establishing himself as a trailblazer in both literature and journalism in Arunachal Pradesh.

For his novel 'Kanyar Mulya', Dai was honored with the esteemed Sitanath Brahma Choudhuri Award by the Assam Sahitya Sabha in 1978. His literary contributions were so significant that the Assam Sahitya Sabha introduced the Lummer Dai Sahitiya Bota award in his honor, with his birthday being commemorated annually.

Lummer Dai passed away in April 2002, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. His life’s work serves as a testament to the power of literature in bridging cultures and empowering communities. As the first writer and author from Arunachal Pradesh, Dai’s achievements are not merely a list of published works but a foundation upon which the literary culture of the state continues to thrive.

In conclusion, Lummer Dai’s life and achievements stand as a beacon for the writers of Arunachal Pradesh and beyond. His dedication to his craft and his love for his culture have immortalized him in the annals of literary history. As we remember Dai, we celebrate not only his works but also the spirit of a man who dared to dream and, in doing so, paved the way for others to follow.

image source: arunachalobserver.org