The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) on Thursday paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary Khasi poet U Soso Tham by unveiling a life-size statue of the literary icon in front of the Central Library at North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), marking his 35th death anniversary. The solemn yet meaningful ceremony saw members of the KSU, students, family members of the late poet and several dignitaries gather to honour a man whose writings continue to shape Khasi identity and cultural consciousness. Floral tributes were offered at the newly unveiled statue as a mark of respect.
The statue was unveiled by former KSU president and North Eastern Students’ Organisation (NESO) chairman Samuel Jyrwa, in the presence of KSU president Lambostarwell Marngar, vice-president Biangbor L. Paliar, and other office-bearers of the union. Addressing the gathering, Soso Tham’s great grand-nephew, R.S. Tham, expressed deep gratitude to the KSU for organising the programme and for maintaining a long-standing bond with the poet’s family. He shared that the family often finds it difficult to organise such commemorative events due to time constraints, and acknowledged the KSU’s initiative in keeping the poet’s legacy alive.
Reflecting on present-day challenges, R.S. Tham voiced concern over the declining use of the Khasi language, especially among the younger generation. He stressed that while learning other languages is important in today’s world, knowing and preserving one’s mother tongue must come first. He underlined the crucial role of organisations like the KSU in reminding society of the importance of safeguarding the Khasi language and cultural heritage. The event served not only as a tribute to U Soso Tham, but also as a reminder of the enduring relevance of his work and the responsibility of the present generation to protect and promote their linguistic and cultural roots.