Founder of Ideal Blind School no more
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 09 2021: Shonlien Kiloung, founder of Ideal Blind School, Takyel, passed away on July 8 following an illness.

He was bom in 1938 to (late) Mr Longkhobel and (late) Mrs Thangkhochin at Kangpokpi Mission Compound.

His vision was impaired from a very young age and was admitted to Calcutta Blind School in 1955.Shonlien Kiloung returned to Manipur in 1961 after clearing matriculation exam and joined AIR Imphal on August 15, 1963 as Tribal Music Accompanist but was later transferred to Indian Music Section in 1966 due to his versatility in Indian Music.

His long dream of opening a blind school in Manipur was finally realised when Ideal Blind School was established in 1973 under the banner of All Manipur Blind Persons Welfare Association under his leadership.

His dedication towards the welfare of visually impaired people was recognised at different levels and he was honoured with numerous awards and citations including a National Award in 1977 for his Philanthropic Act towards society presented by the then President of India.

Other accolades included Rustom Merwanji Alpaiwalla Memorial Award (2003), Mumbai; citation in State level Republic Day celebration in 1991 (Manipur) and a citation by Manipur Sahitya Parishad in 1976 for his ability in handling various musical instruments.

Even after his retirement from AIR Imphal, he continued to be associated with differently abled people in various activities.

He will be fondly remembered for his selfless service towards the welfare of the visually impaired people of the state.

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