Dr Jodhachandra Sanasam honoured
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, May 17 2012: Noted litt�rateur and columnist of Hueiyen Lanpao daily (English) Dr Jodhachandra Sanasam was among other literary figures who were honoured with awards on the occasion of the 54th foundation day of the Cultural Forum, Manipur today.

In an impressive function held at JN Manipur Dance Academy hall here today, Dr Jodhachandra Sanasam was honoured with the prestigious Dineshwori Sahitya Mana, 2012 for his acclaimed novel, Mathou Kanba DNA.

The award has been donated jointly by Elangbam Dinamani, Elangbam Ibehaibi and Elangbam Dineshwar in memory of late Dineshwori Elangbam.

Other literary figures who were felicitated at the occasion included Elangbam Sonamani with Thoibi Award, 2012 (donated by Takhellambam Thoibi Devi herself during her lifetime) and sculptor Brahmacharimayum Amusana Sharma with Huirem Amuba and Yaimabi Award- Lifetime Achievement in Manipuri Culture, Painting and Sculpture (donated by Dr Huirem Bihari, Dr Huirem Nimaichand and their family members).

Dr Jodhachandra Sanasam being honoured with Dineshwori Sahitya Award

Dr Akoijam Shantibala, winner of Bal Sahitya Puraskar (2011) given by Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi was also felicitated with gifts and presents at the occasion.

Speaking as chief guest of the function, MLA of Keishamthong A/C L Ibomcha observed that literature is the mirror of the society and no society can sustain without the contribution of litt�rateurs.

So, they should be given encouragement and honour in recognition of their works.

While recalling that the state government had already announced on the floor of the Assembly that Pension benefits would be given to writers and the Chief Minister had also recently assured Pension benefit to the aged writers, the MLA lamented that the proposed Pension Scheme is yet to be implemented.

He assured that every possible effort would be made from his side to ensure passing of a Bill in this regard during the upcoming Assembly session in July.

Presided over by President of The Cultural Forum, Manipur Sorokhaibam Chaoba, the function was also attended by founder members of the Forum namely Paonam Achou, Laikhuram Jayantakumar, Lamabam Brajendra and L Iboton.

Other highlights of the function included releasing of Manipuri translation of Dr Faustus by Prof Chongtham Manihar and 143-144 edition of the journal, Ritu , and offering of floral tributes to the photographs of all those in whose memorial the awards have been donated.