Kerstin Khundrakpam, a doctoral student at the Centre for Applied Linguistics and Translation Studies (CALTS), University of Hyderabad (UoH), presented her research paper titled “Social Structure of Kabui: An Ethnolinguistic Perspective” at the 7th International Conference on Language, Society, and Culture in Asian Contexts (LSCAC 2024). The conference, held from November 22 to 24, 2024, at the Institute of Cultural Anthropology and The College of Hue in Vietnam, attracted scholars from across the world to discuss pressing issues related to language, culture, and society in Asia.
Under the guidance of her supervisor, Prof. Dr. N. Ramesh, Kerstin Khundrakpam provided a detailed analysis of the social structure of the Kabui community, an indigenous group from the northeastern region of India. Opening her session, Kerstin commended the University of Hyderabad for providing an excellent academic environment that fosters rigorous research in the fields of linguistic and cultural studies. She then delved into the intricate social structures of the Kabui, stressing the importance of language in sustaining these structures.
Khundrakpam’s paper also examined the ways in which language serves as a mechanism for cultural resilience, helping the Kabui community navigate the challenges of cultural erosion brought about by globalization. Her ethnolinguistic approach offered new insights into the intersection of language, culture, and identity, especially in the context of indigenous communities across Asia.
LSCAC 2024 was a continuation of a series of prestigious conferences that have been held over the years in various Asian locations, including Mahasarakham University in Thailand, Universitas Negeri Malang in Indonesia, and the University of Education, Hue University in Vietnam. This year’s event served as an important platform for scholars to explore contemporary issues in the field of linguistics, with a particular focus on the preservation of cultural heritage through language.
Khundrakpam’s work was well-received by the academic community, with many participants praising her innovative approach to understanding the relationship between language and social structure. Her presentation also underscored the ongoing relevance of indigenous languages in the context of global challenges, providing valuable perspectives for scholars, policymakers, and cultural advocates working to protect and promote linguistic diversity.