Kohima: As Father's Day approaches, families are reflecting on the profound impact fathers have on their children. For Theyiesinuo Keditsu, the holiday brings back cherished memories of traveling with her father, Dr. Kezevituo Keditsu, a gynaecologist and founder of Putuonuo Hospital in Kohima. Their bond centers largely on a shared passion for food, an experience that inspired her to write the book, The Boy Who Loved Food.
Keditsu describes her father as an adventurous eater and a lifelong learner. During the book's 2024 launch, which coincided with his birthday, she recalled how his personality shaped her upbringing. As she noted, “As a child, I would sit beside my father, listening to his stories, memories stirring with flavours and aromas, told in the language of meals.” She remains particularly grateful for his guidance on maintaining humility and a constant drive for self-improvement.
The journey from strict parent to trusted friend is a sentiment echoed by Ngonyo Jacob Krocha. He remembers his father, Nasü Krocha, a 73-year-old farmer, as a visionary who defied societal expectations to ensure his eight children were well-educated. Despite the challenges of agricultural life, the elder Krocha supported his children's diverse ambitions, including those of his son Bunyi, who now farms in Zhavame village.
Ngonyo sees his father as a resilient, free-spirited figure who avoids limiting himself to village life. As a father himself to four children, Ngonyo is committed to fostering open communication and independence. He rejects the idea of forcing his own goals onto his children, preferring to raise them as responsible thinkers. By treating them as friends, he ensures they feel comfortable enough to correct him, a dynamic he believes keeps their relationship healthy and supportive.
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