296th Puya Mei Thaba observed in Keinou
Source: Chronicle News Service

Bishnupur, January 22 2025: International Observance Committee on Puya Meithaba ICOP Kangleipak in association with Lainingthou Lam Ahingba Thougal Lup Keinou and Laining Inat Kanba Lup (LAIKAL) Keinou observed the 296th commemoration of the burning of Puyas (Ancient scriptures of Manipur), on Wednesday.

The Puya Mei Thaba is observed on the 23rd day of Wakching month of Meetei calendar, every year.

On this day, in 1729, important scriptures and texts indigenous to the erstwhile kingdom were collected and set ablaze in front of Kangla Uttra under the instruction of the then king.

The horrific incident marked the destruction of a civilization.

The observance was held at Ahingba Lampak in Keinou under Bishnupur district and this marked its 47th observance.

296th Puya Mei Thaba observed in Keinou

The function was attended by retired PWD chief engineer Yumnam Joykumar, ICOP Kangleipak vice chairman N Naodalenkhomba, MEELAL president Kh Ingocha, ICOP convenor N Naokhamba, MSSLC president Ph Gunanchandra Sharma, AMRPSWA president L Joy khuman, United Manipur Muslim Women Development Organisation president Anwari Nurjahan, Lainin-ghal Naoria Phullo Charitable Trust secretary Okram Suren and MNF kangleipak advisor Namoijam Tomba as presidium members.

Speaking at the occasion, Yumnam Joykumar stressed the importance of unity to protect Manipur from destruction, warning that without collective effort, the state may cease to exist and its indigenous people may face extinction.

He pointed out that "despite having our own script, we have neglected it, leading to a loss of our identity.

We need to pass on the knowledge of Puya Meithab to future generations, ensuring they fully understand its significance, as well as the customs and traditions of our culture" .

Chingmee Tamee Nungshi Khudol award recipient Dr K Hirakabui, who was also present at' the occasion, expressed that the Kabuis continue to preserve their culture, traditions and religion and called for identifying those who are attempting to destroy these values.

While the Puya texts of Manipur have been burned and destroyed, he said that no one can extinguish our heart and soul.

Dr Hirakabui urged both the Kabuis and Meeteis to stand united, confront external forces, and recognise their common enemies.

He affirmed that the Kabuis and Meeteis are one and the same, both having evolved as "Haomi," and children of the same mother.

On the occasion, Maichou Ningshing Mana was handed over to retired head master Kh Chaoba Angom, while Chingmee Tammee Nungshi Khudol Mana was awarded to Dr K Hirakabui of Kabo Leikai, Imphal East.

A play on Puya Meithba was also showcased on the occasion.