Manipuri writer proudly steps in national domain
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, December 10 2013:
Budding Manipuri writer Okram Leishemba Mangangcha aka Ibudhou People has been able to earn a prominent place in the domain of national literature by bagging several literary awards including the prestigious Gourao Puruskar Sohala Award.
Leishemba is the fifth child among nine children of (late) Okram Mani and Okram Ongbi Priyosakhi of Takyel Khongbal in Imphal West.
Talking to Hueiyen Lanpao, Leishemba said, "I feel really good to write and communicate with the people.
I have been able to earn a distinct place in the national arena by grace of the Almighty and my parents who have nurtured me to this stage" .
"My writings are simple and have direct relevance to the people.
Moreover, I believe in originality and I never indulge in plagiarism for the sake of producing some good works", he contended.
He ventured into writing with the publication of his first book of poems titled "Eikhoi Punna Hingminnashi".
Later, he went on to participate in poets' conventions and other literary events at various parts of the country to bring refinement to his writing.
During one of the literary events held in Bihar, Leishemba got a rare opportunity to interact with various writers writing in different languages and dialects.
He also presented his Manipuri poems at the event.
One of his companions translated his poems for the audience.
Notably, the organizers were overwhelmed with his poems and thus conferred him with Gourao Puruskar Sohala Award.
This prestigious literary award was presented to him at Mumbai in 2011 .
He is also the recipient of Dr Ambedkar Award, Nongpok Ningthou Award, and awards given by Manipur Sahitya Parishad, Bishnupur Branch and other literature organizations.
Leishemba further said that many writers like him are in a transitional stage between the old and new generation.
The works of older writers must be regarded and studied thoroughly by the young writers.
The literary works presented to the people are indeed the reflection of the writers' thoughts and that of the society at large, he added.