Workshop on 'Rite-de-Passage' of Sanamahism concludes
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, November 28 2023:
Manipur University of Culture (MUC) in coordination with Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple Board (LSTB) is planning to open a study centre for indigenous religion at Lainingthou Sanamahi temple, Haying Khongban Uphong Yumpham, revealed MUC vice chancellor Paonam Gunindro at the concluding session of a 15-day workshop on 'Rite-de-Passage' of Sanamahism (Sanamahi Laining-gi Pokpa, Luhongba Amasung Korou Nongganbagi Thouramsing) jointly organised by LSTB and MUC.
Speaking as chief guest of the event held on Sunday, Gunindro pointed out that Sanamahism preserved by Manipuri forefathers is a religion with very high philosophical concept as this faith highly praises and worships the mother earth.
Anyone who follows Sanamahism prays mother Earth early in the morning before stepping foot on her and this exemplifies how every Sanamahism follower honours and respects the mother earth.
Understanding the importance of knowing 'Rite-de-Passage' of Sanamahism and keeping religious rituals of birth, marriage and death in the right perspective, MUC conducted the workshop in coordination with Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple Board, professor Gunindro added.
LSTB member secretary Shivdutta Luwang, in his key note address at the concluding session of the workshop, said that every religion has 'Rite-de-Passage' namely religious rituals of birth, marriage and death and Sanamahism is no exception as it has its own complete religious rituals at par with other major religions.
The workshop was organised with the main objective of promoting and preserving Sanamahi religion and to make the religion alive at par with other major religions of the globe, he said adding that more than 200 delegates approached for the workshop but only 200 were given opportunity to attend the same.
He also said that more than 30 resource persons spoke on various topics during the workshop along with interacting with the delegates.
The event was also attended by MUC registrar Laishram Radhakanta and Manipur University registrar professor Wahengbam Chandbabu.
As a part of the programme, the first edition of 'Sanamahi Mapao', a quarterly journal carrying messages of Sanamahism, was also released.