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Featured posts

NYIT Graduate Dominica Jamir from Nagaland Shares Her Excitement about AR and VR Going Mainstream – and Launching Her Own Company in New York

Published by Arepla Jamir

Interview by Supong Arep Growing up in Dimapur Nagaland, 25-year old Tiajungla Dominica Jamir discovered early on that she had a natural flair for computers, gaming – and everything tech. That led her to pursue a computer science degree in Bengaluru. But what we are about to chat about is the interesting journey she undertook post her graduation.  Being the ambitious go-getter that she is, she started exploring deeper into her interests in new-age technologies. That’s when she decided to go for a master’s degree in UX/UI Design and Development, from the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), New York City in 2019. She recently graduated summa cum laude (an honorary title used by educational institutions to signify a degree that was earned “with the highest distinction.”) and was the only Indian orator selected from among graduating students to speak at the NYIT 2021 Commencement. She is now on her way to becoming an entrepreneur by co-founding her own AR & VR based startup in NYC.  We chat with Dominica Jamir to get to know …

Rootsandleisure_Runway Nagaland-profile

Meet Nengneithem Hengna, the Woman Behind ‘Runway Nagaland’ – the Most Accessible Brand for Naga Jewelry and Handlooms.

Published by Arepla Jamir

“Dare to live the life you have dreamt for yourself. Go forward and make your dreams come true.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson Today we have Nengneithem Hengna – founder of ‘Runway Nagaland’ who has been quietly making her mark through her jewelry and handloom business. Her venture is run by an all-women team, which started out as a humble store in Nagaland to market local jewelry outside the state. Today, they have three different brands that offer an eclectic collection of traditional Naga jewelry, handwoven crafts, and premium contemporary pieces – that are loved by locals and customers across the country.   Just like their creations, Runway Nagaland continues to be awe-inspiring through its contribution to local employment and women’s empowerment. It’s no wonder that Nengneithem Hengna confidently confirms that she is living her dream life! So – let’s meet the woman behind it all. Here’s a brief chat with the founder, Nengneithem Hengna from Nagaland.  Nengneithem Hengna- Founder of ‘Runway Nagaland’ Supong: Hi, welcome to R&L! So excited about this chat with you finally! Please …

RootsandLeisure_bakers from North East

Small Town Bakers from Northeast India Share Their Portfolio of Cakes and Bakes

Published by Titiksha Jain

“If baking is any labor at all, it’s a labor of love. A love that gets passed from generation to generation.” – Regina Brett Our team at R&L reached out to a bunch of bakers across Northeast India in an attempt to explore the variety of bakers out here. We met some of the most talented bakers from the region – from seasoned bakers to newbies, including a spirited 13-year-old from Arunachal! Each of them shared their favorite baking themes along with a showcase of their creations. Read on to meet this talented bunch and explore their portfolio of bakes & cakes – ranging from abstract to imitation to floral, and more.  Atele Sarah, 27, Baker behind ‘ Baked With Love’ from Nagaland ” I have been baking since 2019. I love anything floral, hence that would be my favorite baking theme. I also like creating designs that are elegant and dainty. I am not a trained baker but I am inspired by a wonderful community of talented bakers. Whenever I have a minute to …

RootsandLeisure_artist_Mhademo Shitiri

This Young Artist from Nagaland is Winning Hearts and Art Commissions With His Realistic Pencil Portraits | Meet 23-year old Mhademo Shitiri

Published by Meribeni Ngullie

“It is ok to make mistakes, but it is not ok to give up.” ~ Wise words from 23-year-old Mhademo Shitiri from Nagaland. This self-taught artist is famous for realistic portrait sketches and has a huge following of devoted admirers. Young Mhademo started drawing as a 5-year-old, and today, fans are reaching out to him from as far as Dubai and Singapore. Not only that, he is able to earn a living using his talent and passion. Over a chat, we talk about his early memories of drawing as a young boy, his supportive parents, how his school (Don Bosco, Wokha) played a role in reinforcing his confidence in choosing this path, his most memorable fan message, and more. Read on. Self-Taught Artist Mhademo Shitiri from Wokha, Nagaland Meribeni: Hi Mhademo, so excited to be having this chat. Huge fan of your work! Please introduce yourself to our R&L readers. Mhademo: I am Mhademo Shitiri, the eldest among four siblings. I hail from Old Changsu Village in Nagaland, and I was born and raised in …

RootsandLeisure_giltgourmet_dimapur

Food Blog ‘Gilt Gourmet’ from Nagaland is Introducing Locals to Gourmet Food from Around the World | Meet the Curators – KT and Grace

Published by Deno Dolie

Before it fills your stomach, good food often serves as a feast for the eyes – and at times, a memorable cooking experience. Today we have Kt & Grace from Dimapur to guide us into their world of gourmet, and their Insta food blog ‘Gilt Gourmet.’ Sisters and best friends, these food curators from Nagaland have been enthusing their followers with their mouth-watering and eye-catching food photos – captured by them while cafe hopping or cooking at home. Their feed serves as an inspiration to go beyond our familiar food zone, and explore new cuisines, which can be just as enticing and comforting as our North Eastern palate. I chat with Kt and Grace to know more about ‘Gilt Gourmet’, their favorite meals, and even get them to share a super simple Italian recipe! Read on. ‘Gilt Gourmet’ curators – Kt & Grace from Dimapur, Nagaland Deno: Welcome to R&L! Please introduce yourself to our readers. KT & Grace: We’re two sisters and go by the name Kt & Grace. Growing up, our love for …

RootsandLeisure_artist_irahomespun

Two Sisters from Kohima are Reinventing Embroidery and Crochet Crafts under Their Brand ‘Ira Homespun’

Published by Menule Chirhah

The pandemic is taking a toll on humans around the world. So it is indeed encouraging to know that this downtime has given many the free time and will to pick up a hobby or start a home venture. Reading about, or talking to such enterprising folks, has given me ample reasons to see the silver lining during this time of gloom. I hope these stories will inspire you too. Very recently, I came across a hobby venture by two sisters Nulevino and Vitsino from Kohima called ‘Ira Homespun.’ These soft-spoken and talented siblings create all sorts of handmade goodies – from embroidered tote bags, to wall pieces to crochet dolls and pretty face masks – with their signature aesthetic of cute. I had a chat with them to know more about what they do full-time, how they picked up their talent (apparently they have a creative mom who has taught them most of their crafts), their future plans, and more. Scroll below to know more about the talented Iralu Sisters and their hobby venture …

RootsandLeisure_melwhisks_pondicherry

Siblings Ayush and Rhea from Pondicherry Talk About their Food Venture ‘Mel Whisks’ – and Their Best-Selling Desserts!

Published by Deno Dolie

Pondicherry will always have a special place in my heart, as it reminds me so much of home (even while traveling). Although this beach destination is a contrast from my hilly hometown (of Nagaland), the overall vibe of this small town feels pleasantly familiar to the place I grew up in. A former French colony, the local food in Pondy is an eclectic mix of French and South Indian cuisines. And thanks to Pondy friends, I was introduced to a host of cafes and bakers out there, who make the most amazing baked goodies and desserts! On one of my Pondy food expeditions, I came across ‘Mel Whisks’ – a home-based cloud kitchen run by a sibling duo in Pondicherry. They sell mouthwatering gourmet food and desserts. I have been following their Insta page even since the lockdown happened, and have even ordered their desserts jar for my friends there, who have been raving about them ever since! So I got on a call to interview the two people behind ‘Mel Whisks’ – siblings Ayush …

RootsandLeisure_Musician_Imrongtuden

Imrongtuden aka IMXRNG from Nagaland Talks About Creating Lo-fi Music and His Bold Musical Ambitions

Published by Arepla Jamir

One of our greatest gifts that is solely ours is our ability to dream; while some toil to make their dreams come true, some blend into the shadows of fear and frustration. So it is encouraging to see some brave hearts go against adversaries in pursuit of their dreams – however odd or bold they may seem. A friend of mine is one such courageous soul, who has made the bold decision to take the path of resistance to follow his passion for music. I’d like to introduce you to Imrongtuden from Dimapur, who is an aspiring musician/Producer/DJ. Apart from his musical talent, he is also known among his circle for his creativity, hard work, and curiosity. He plays the piano pretty proficiently as well, and makes great Anime art. Let’s find out more about him, his music and more. Session Musician and Lo-fi producer Imrongtuden from Nagaland Supong: We can only ever start something by truly knowing the person, to start it off would you like to tell us a little about yourself. Imrongtuden: …

Rootsandleisure_Greige Rose Chocolates

‘Greige Rose Chocolates’ from Nagaland Have the Most Delectable Collection of Quirky and Colorful

Published by Menule Chirhah

23-year old Rose from Nagaland had to quit her job as an air hostess during the COVID pandemic in 2020. But this young woman showed her resiliency and inner talent by taking the downtime to launch her own chocolate brand. It’s been less than a year since she started her venture, but her homemade chocolate brand ‘Greige Rose Chocolates‘ has been making waves among the locals in Nagaland. ‘Greige Rose Chocolates‘ is known for using perfectly tempered chocolates to create the most creative and imaginative designs. They come neatly packed in gorgeous packaging and each new item is a breath of fresh air just like the creator herself. I chat with its founder Rose, to delve deeper into her story and her chocolates! Read on. Rose, Owner of ‘Griege Rose Chocolates’  Menule: Hi, please tell us about yourself!  Rose: Hi, my name is Rose and I’m 23 years old. I am the owner of ‘Greige Rose Chocolates’ which I started back in June of 2020. I had just quit my job as an air hostess …

Rootsandleisure_Nitesh Chamling_Mu Kimchi

‘Mu Kimchi’ Restaurant in Gangtok, Sikkim is a Korean Food Lover’s Paradise | Chat with Owner Nitesh Chamling

Published by Roots & Leisure

  ‘Mu Kimchi’ is a super popular restaurant in Sikkim – serving authentic Korean cuisine. With its cozy welcoming ambiance, this place is a must-visit for all Korean food lovers for a fun night out with family and friends. Customers from all over the world – including Koreans, have been spotted in this happening spot in Gangtok. We recently chatted with the owner – Nitesh Chamling, a young entrepreneur from Gangtok, who has been running this restaurant for the past 6 years. A Civil engineering grad from Bangalore, he left his job in the city to pursue his dream of opening a restaurant in his hometown. Over a quick chat, Nitesh gives us a run-through of the top 5 Korean cuisines to try, his favorite leisure activities, and more. Nitesh Chamling – Owner of ‘Mu Kimchi’ restaurant, Sikkim Hi Nitesh, welcome to R&L! Please introduce yourself to our readers. Nitesh: My name is Nitesh Chamling, I come from a small town called Temi in South Sikkim now I reside in Gangtok. I did my schooling …