Time to accelerate declaration of Manipuri as classical language: Governor
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 17 2014: The highest State level literary award, Manipur State Award for Literature 2013 was conferred on Birendrajit Naorem, who is a also a columnist of Hueiyen Lanpao, for his book of poems "Turel Nangdi" today.

The prestigious award was presented to Birendrajit by Governor VK Duggal during an impressive function hosted by Department of Language Planning & Implementation at JN Dance Academy hall here.

The award carries cash reward of Rs 3 lakh and includes a plague, a shawl and a citation.

Speaking on the occasion, Governor VK Duggal, who was the chief guest, said that the Government of Manipur has already initiated steps for getting Manipuri language declared as a classical language of India.

Governor VK Duggal at distribution function of 6th Manipur State Award for Literature-2013 Pix - Kiran Singh (DIPR)

"This, no doubt, is a critical step and so I will take this opportunity and request Education minister M Okendraji and through him the State Government to accelerate the process and provide sufficient funds to the scholars who can contribute towards reaching the goal," the Governor said, adding that if this is achieved, it will enrich the Indian languages as it will be the "first language" from the Tibeto-Burman languages to be conferred the status of classical language.

The Governor noted that Manipur has made tremendous contribution towards Indian literature and all of us should be proud of the fact that there is now no anthology of Indian literature which does not feature Manipuri works.

"I may, however, add that people outside Manipur will know more about it, if there was a larger body of translated works.

At present the number of translated works is rather limited and I do hope that the Department of Language, Planning & Implementation will take necessary initiative for translation of Manipuri works into other languages and vice-versa," the Governor said.

"I had made this suggestion the other day also while releasing the ancient Tamilian poet Thiruvalluvar's works in Manipuri.

Efforts should be made that more and more classical Manipuri literature is translated in other Indian and global languages so that the society as a whole feels and gets enriched .

If for that purpose, as Governor of the State, I could be of any help, it would be my pleasure to do so," Duggal assured.

He also hailed Birendrajit Naorem as a talented poet who has been bestowed with the award for his collection of poems "Turel Nangdi", which loosely translated means "Thou River," and said that his work through the use of poetic imagery, symbolism and metaphors using soft and tender word s vividly expresses the present day disturbed life, the impact of contemporary politics and image of society which are eroding into the values of humanity.

Education Minister Okendro, who presided over the award presentation ceremony, said that 30 different local organizations in Manipur are now working for promoting Manipuri literature and urged the youth to take the academic opportunities from Manipuri language through learning.

He said the cash prize amount for the Manipur State Award for Literature introduced in 2008 has been increased to Rs 3 lakh from the previous Rs 1 lakh.

From next year onwards, he informed, lifetime achievement award, which will also include a cash prize amount of Rs 6 lakh, will be given to eminent personalities, especially elderly persons who are working in the field of literature.

Guest of honour of the occasion, noted writer Elangbam Dinamani called on Manipur Government to take initiative to introduce pension and lifetime achievement scheme for all writers in the State.

Accepting the award, Birendrajit Naorem remarked that all writers have their own contribution and responsibility in a nation building task.

He maintained that bringing prosperity and change in a society is impossible without the help of writers.

Birendra authored his first short story book "Aonba" in 1988 and later on wrote five more books of short stories and poems.

Among them, "Ngamkhei Ngakpa" may be mentioned.