1872 Graphic Non-fiction

1872, brings to expression a critical historical event that illustrates the Naga peoples' early encounters with missionizing in the backdrop of British colonial rule. Talilula's narrative goes to the heart of storytelling and stirs real characters to life through vivid images that offer a new experience with an old familiar story. In doing so, she creates a perspective that allows readers to closely examine and interact through this art form. As a graphic narrative, 1872 contributes to Naga literature by encouraging Naga writers and illustrators to find creative and imaginative ways of telling a story. 1872 is unique in the Naga context and has the potential to reach a broader audience. It demonstrates the desire for Nagas to tell their own stories in their own ways, for their own purposes and to restore a spirit that is no longer caged. Hopefully, 1872 will be used in contexts that invite conversations which are both decolonizing and rehumanizing. - Aküm Longchari (PhD), Publisher of The Morung Express

1872, Graphic Non-Fiction, written and conceptualized by Talilula and illustrated by Tetsong, is an aesthetically stunning and informational treat for readers. Talilula uses factual sources to offer authentic historical details about how the village of Molungkimong was first Christianized. The narratives and vignettes that delve into the practices of the Naga are strikingly recreated in an engaging visual form to offer rare descriptions of what it took for early forward Naga thinkers to introduce Christianity, which blends into indigenous lifeways as tradition encounters modernity. A must-read for anyone who values high-level research into community history or just loves a great read! - Margaret Lyngdoh - Researcher, Department of Estonian and Comparative Folklore, University of Tartu

A nuanced graphic rendition of pages from the annals of missionary and indigenous history. Juintessentially intriguing and profound. The illustrations works in tandem with the narrative to unfurl an indigenous history few are aware of. L'élan, it leaves you intrigued. - Reep Pandi Lepcha - Academic-activist

Talilula and Tetsong present a delightful depiction of friendships in a time of war, disease and famine. Talilula's researched approach to storytelling flows with Tetsong's impeccable graphic illustrations as they take us through the lives of key personalities, landscapes, ideas and histories-Molungkimong/Dekahaimong, Amguri, Sibsagar, Süpongmeren, Godhula, the Clarks, the Tatars, Dikhu, Yongsük, Ariju, the songs, the many names on previously nameless lists, and much more. The authors' teamwork aids our imagination of the 19t century exchange between the Ao Nagas, Tsüngrem, Lijaba, Lungkitsüngba and the American Baptist Mission, British administrators, Assamese translators, God and Christianity. This artistic endeavor is a great opportunity to inspire more work in this form! - Aheli Moitra