Lakhipuronline Digital Desk: A historic literary event was hosted for the first time at Banga Bhawan, Silchar, marking a significant moment for Manipuri literature. The unveiling of ‘Manipurer Etibrittyo’ by renowned author Natbhushan Maimom Angouton (Kalen) Singh, alongside three other books from Manipur—‘Nupilaan’, ‘Sankirtan Madhuri’, and ‘Shamu Lamsha Amasung Karta Jay Singh’—was organized as a joint effort by the Cachar District Committee of Barak Banga Sahitya O Sanskriti Sammelan and Maimom Tamal Thambal Memorial Charitable Trust.
The event was presided over by Sanjib Deb Laskar, President of the Cachar District Committee. Distinguished guests included L. Biramangol Singh (President, Tripura Manipuri Sahitya Parishad), Dr. Phuritsabam Birmani Singh (President, Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, Assam), Dr. K.N. Chand Singh (Manipuri Advisory Board, New Delhi, Sahitya Akademi), Prof. Tapon Debobrato Bhattacharya (Assam University), and renowned poet-reporter Atin Das.
The event commenced with a captivating performance of the traditional Manipuri folk dance Kwatha Famkaba by M. Machathoibi. The unveiling ceremony began with ‘Manipurer Etibrittyo’, introduced by the chief guest, L. Biramangol Singh, who described it as a significant work documenting Manipur’s history, folklore, and cultural evolution. He emphasized its value for future researchers.
Prof. Tapodhir Bhattacharjee highlighted the event’s role in fostering cultural unity. He praised Barak Banga for promoting multilingualism and commended Kalen Singh and his son, Dr. M. Shantikumar Singh (Secretary, Maimom Tamal Thambal Memorial Trust), for their relentless efforts in literary preservation.
The unveiling of ‘Nupilaan’, a book documenting the historic women’s revolts in Manipur, was led by Dr. K.N. Chand Singh. Sahitya Bhushan I.S. Thingom introduced the book, stressing its significance as a tribute to women’s resilience and strength.
‘Sankirtan Madhuri’, focusing on the philosophy and cultural depth of Manipuri Sankirtan festivals, was unveiled by Dr. Phuritsabam Birmani Singh. The book’s author, Chongtham Gour Singh, elaborated on its insights into Manipuri religious and cultural traditions.
The final book, ‘Shamu Lamsha Amasung Karta Jay Singh’, was introduced by Prof. Tapodhir Bhattacharjee. Dr. K.N. Chand Singh detailed the book’s narrative on King Bhagyachandra of Manipur and his strategic alliance with the Ahom ruler, symbolized by the capture of a rogue elephant.
Speakers such as Dr. Bibhas Deb (Principal, GC College, Silchar) and Nirmal Kumar Das (President, JAKALCA) praised the event’s role in promoting cultural harmony. A multilingual poetry session, featuring renowned poets like L. Lily Devi and Adima Mazumdar, further enriched the occasion.
In his presidential address, Sanjib Deb Laskar described the Manipuris as a “rare bloom” in Barak Valley’s diverse demography. He recalled how Captain Thomas had settled Manipuris near Bengali villages to safeguard the region and acknowledged the community’s historic role in protecting others. Addressing the current turmoil in Manipur, he called for unity to overcome challenges.
In his closing remarks, Kalen Singh expressed gratitude to all attendees and contributors. He invited feedback for future revisions of his books and made an exciting announcement—his upcoming Bengali translation of ‘Cheitharol Kumbaba: Chronicles of Manipur’.
The event marked a milestone in literary and cultural collaboration, with each participant receiving copies of Kalen Singh’s books as a token of appreciation.