Thailand team visits Lainingthou Sanamahi shrine
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, October 17 2023:
The delegation from Thailand, which is visiting Manipur University of Culture (MUC) for studying 'Meetei Pung', on Tuesday toured Lainingthou Sanamahi shrine at Haying Khongban Uphong Yumpham topay obeisance to Lainingthou Sanamahi and Ima Leimarel Sidabi.
Their visit is a sign that people of various countries have high respect towards Sanamahi religion which has been closely associated with more than 2000 years old Meetei civilisation along with its culture and traditions.
During the visit, the delegation guided by MUC vice chancellor professor Paonam Gunindro had a first-hand experience of 'Pung-Eshei' performance dedicated to Lainingthou Sanamahi and Ima Leimarel Sidabi along with paying floral tributes to memorial of ancestors of seven 'Yek-Salai' of Meetei.
The Thailand delegation was also presented gifts by Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple Board (LSTB) on the occasion.
Speaking to media persons, LSTB vice president Bidyapati Senjam ('Wakhal Lamjingba') expressed that Manipur's cultural heritage including 'Meetei Pung' is a priceless treasure which has been recognised and respected worldwide.
He continued that 'Meetei Pung' has a unique sound and it is a very proud moment for us that recognising this, students from Thailand have come to study it.
He also expressed elation that the Thai delegation visited the shrine to pay their respect.
Praising MUC VC Prof P Gunindro for the initiative, Bidyapati Senjam expressed belief that such initiative will bring more recognition to state's culture, tradition and religion in South East Asia and form a closer bond between North East India and South East Asia region.
The delegation that visited the shrine comprised University Council, Thailand chairman Dr Tanom Intarakumnerd, Surindra Rajabhat University Department of Huminities & Social Sciences faculty Janmong Jungkhiyu, Phanakhon Rajabhat University lecturer Prayit Khaopluim, Department of Music head Asadang Dejrodta along with five students.
The delegates were welcomed by LSTB member secretary Shivadutta Luwang and other board members and later on during the feast held at the shrine they apprised them on the etiquettes observed by Meeteis during such public banquet.