In this Ptenopus Dialogue, we sit down with D. Junisha Khongwir and Karen L. Donoghue to explore Stories from the Valley, a photo-text book that weaves together the history of the diasporic Mizo community in Happy Valley, Shillong. But beyond documenting community history, this project is a testament to friendship, healing, and the power of listening.
Karen and Junisha reflect on their close friendship and the creative process behind their collaboration. Combining their distinct practices, they navigated differing perspectives through empathy and, as Karen puts it, “the most generous act—listening.”
A book created for the people and for all ages, Stories from the Valley captures the joy and pride of a community seeing their images and stories come to life.
At its heart, the book seeks to spark curiosity. It’s not meant to provide a definitive understanding of the Mizo community in Happy Valley, but instead, invites readers to explore, engage and empathise.
Karen Lalrindiki Donoghue teaches in the Dept. of Journalism and Mass Communication at North-Eastern Hill University Shillong. Her research is focused on media representations of Northeast India in mainstream Indian media. Karen enjoys reading, playing the guitar, and listening to music. She also loves long walks with her dogs and occasionally writes poetry.
Donskobar Junisha Khongwir is an educator and visual artist. She’s an Assistant professor at the Department of Mass Media, St Anthony’s College, Shillong and is also the curator at the Northeast India AV Archive.
Interviewers: Pritha Mahanti and Jessica Jakoinao
Video Editor: Pritha Mahanti
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