Seminar on "Life & works of Laishram Samarendra and Elangbam Sonamani" kicks off
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 04 2025: A two-day international seminar on "Life and Works of Laishram Samarendra and Elangbam Sonamani" began today at the auditorium of State Central Library, Imphal.

It was jointly organised by Fiction & Poetry Club, Manipur; State Central Library, Imphal; Department of Manipuri, Assam University; Kha Manipur College, Kakching; IQAC, NG College, Imphal in connection with the Manipuri Poetry Day 2025.The seminar was organised in association with the family members of Laishram Samarendra and Elangbam Sonamani.

The inaugural function was graced by dignitaries, including Prof Wahengbam Chandbabu, Vice Chancellor, Dhanamanjuri University; Dr RK Urmila, Chief Librarian, State Central Library, Imphal; Dr Haorongbam Rajmani, Manipuri Department, Assam University; Prof Shamurailatpam Shantibala Devi, Principal, NG College; and Thoudam Netrajit Singh, president, Fiction & Poetry Club, Manipur.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Chandbabu said that the decrease in readership for poems, short stories, essays, and fiction by local writers is an alarming situation.

He stated that the pervasiveness of smartphones, social media, and streaming services offers constant, instant gratification, making the sustained focus required for reading feel effortful.

He continued that many people, particularly the younger generation now pick up their phones instead of a book during their downtime.

"Local writers and poets document and reflect the unique culture, history, and perspectives of their communities.

When their work goes unread, it weakens a community's sense of shared identity and cultural heritage", he added.

Prof Chandbabu further asserted that without a local readership to support them, many emerging writers and poets may become discouraged, leading to a loss of diverse new voices and ideas.

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