Puya burning observed solemnly
Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Imphal, February 04 2013:
The 284th Puya Mei Thaba Commemoration Day was observed at Imphal on Monday with titular king of Manipur, Leishemba Sanajaoba gracing the function as chief guest.
The function of the Puya Mei Thaba (burning of ancient books of Manipuri scriptures) was jointly organized by International Observation Committee on Puya Mei Thaba (ICOP), Meitei National Front (MNF), Manipur State Shumang Leela Council (MSSLC) and All Manipur Recognised Private Schools' Welfare Association at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound here.
A rally participated by hundreds of people was also organized, part of the commemorative function.
Afterwards they paid floral tribute to the forefathers at Kangla Utra Shanglen (coronation fort).
Then, it returned to the venue of the function.
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There, they observed a two-minute silence in remembrance of the historic Puya Mei Thaba event.
RV Mingthing, chairman, ICOP, MNF and its vice chairman Prof Sairem Nilabir and Mutum Bahadur, apart from Leishemba Sanajaoba graced the function.
Speaking on the occasion, MSSLC secretary Sh Hemanta recaptured that Shantidas Adhikari, popularly known as Shantidas Gosai burnt down the Meiteis' ancient books of scriptures known as Puya written in Meitei Mayek (script) in front of Kangla Utra in Imphal on the 23rd day of the month of Wakching (Manipuri calendar) in 1729 AD .
Shantidas was a Hindu preacher from Sylhet who converted King Pamheiba of Manipur to Hinduism in 1717 AD.
Under the behest of the Hindu preacher, Pamheiba ordered his men to burn all the Meitei scriptures.
At the function, Leishemba Sanajaoba gave away the 'Maichou Ningshing Mana' (award) to Sanabam Khamba and 'Chingtam Nungsi Mana to Joshua Luikang Maram.
The awards carry Rs 10, 000 each and also certificates.
PR Parhoi Chothe, Purum Chubang village chief and Thangal Surung village chief also attended the function.