SAYOKA's 46th foundation day: Thomas Hardy Memorial Award handed over to Kh (o) Gunamani
Source: The Sangai Express

Thoubal, October 10 2025: At its 46th foundation day ceremony, Sahitya Yokhat Kanglup (SAYOKA), Tentha presented the Thomas Hardy Memorial Award 2025 to writer Thokchom Ningol Khundongbam Ongbi Gunamani from Heirok for her 2021 work titled "Nungsirabi Eigi Khungang" .

Additionally, SAYOKA felicitated eight eminent personalities during the event held today at Tentha Khongbal Multiplex.

Notable dignitaries in attendance include Dr Narengbam Rajiv Kumar, Principal, IRE Group of Institutions, Wangjing as the chief guest; Kartik Maiba, president, SAYOKA as the functional president; Thounaojam Khomdol, Librarian, Manipur University of Culture, Imphal and Dr M Nara, former Minister, Art & Culture as the guests of honour.

The ceremony was kicked off with an offering of floral tributes on the portrait of English novelist and poet Thomas Hardy and noted writer from Tentha Late Kabiraj Moirangthem Rajendra.

The gathering observed a two minute silence to pay their respects to the writer who passed away recently on September 29.The Thomas Hardy Memorial Award 2025 was sponsored by the late writer.

The award focuses on writings that revolve around one's native land and came into being in 2017 .

It comes with Rs 5000 in cash, shawl and a certificate.

On another note, the eight dignitaries felicitated at today's event include family of Moirangthem Rajendra (on his behalf), M Tomba Devi, Dr M Priyobarta, Yamuna Lairenjam, Raheijuddin Sheikh, Rakesh Naorem, Laimujam Pratap and Naorem Indira Devi.

Addressing the gathering, Kartik Maiba said that 7 likeminded individuals from Tentha released a book titled "Machu Taretki Atiya" and established the association in 1979 which celebrates its 46th foundation day today.

Expressing joy on the occasion, he stated that many writers have emerged from Tentha area and contributed to the growth of Manipuri literature.

Meanwhile, Dr N Rajiv Kumar lauded the role of SAYOKA in advancing Manipuri literature.

Sengoi Sanasam, secretary, SAYOKA was also present at the event which was attended by many literary enthusiasts.

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