Seminar highlights role of Manipuri literature in women's empowerment
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 24 2026: A 1-day seminar on "Manipuri Literature as a Reflection of Women's Empowerment in the 21st Century" was successfully conducted today at the hall of Hindi Teachers' Training College, Dhanamanjuri University campus in Imphal.

The seminar was organised by the Sahitya Akademi in collaboration with Manipur State Kala Akademi (MSKA) .

The seminar commenced with a welcome address by Sunanda Thokchom, Secretary, MSKA, followed by an introductory speech from Rajen Toijamba, Convenor of the Sahitya Akademi's Manipuri Advisory Board, outlining the various initiatives taken by the Akademi to promote Manipuri literature.

Rajen Toijamba also stressed the necessity of addressing women's rights and empowerment in the context of changing times and acknowledged the substantial contributions of women writers to the field.

Speaking on the occasion as the chief guest, H Gyan Prakash, Commissioner (Art & Culture, Government of Manipur, said that literature plays a foundational role in the development, enrichment, and preservation of a language, acting as both a mirror of society and a guide for linguistic evolution.

He stated that extensive literature is essential for language growth and emphasized the need to incorporate more women's empowerment themes into Manipuri literature.

Kshetrimayum Bira, General Council Member, MSKA, spoke about the crucial need to empower women further to guide the society towards a positive direction.

He noted that women have historically played a significant role in preserving many Manipuri traditions.

The seminar also included two sessions chaired by Longjam Joychandra and Thokchom Ibohanbi Singh.

During the sessions, papers on various topics were presented by Ch Shreeleramani, Laishram Randhoni, M Priyobrata Singh, N Aruna, K Gunarani, L Sangita, Mangangcha Thoudam Achou and W Kumari Chanu.

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