Fitting tributes paid to late Pramodini
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 03 2024: Professor Rajen Toijamba, convenor, Manipuri Language Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi has asserted that the emergence of more pioneering writers like Khaidem Pramodini in Manipur will lead to a transformation of the State.

He made the remark during the inauguration of the year long observance of the multi faceted writer's 100th birth anniversary at Manipur Dramatic Union, Yaiskul, Imphal today organised by Leimarol Khorjeikol (LEIKOL) .

The ceremony was inaugurated with the offering of floral tributes to the portrait of the noted author and lyricist.

Professor Rajen Toijamba graced the event as chief guest while Kshetrimayum Subadani, president, LEIKOL was present as the functional president.

Fitting tributes paid to late Pramodini

Professor Nahakpam Aruna, former Dean, School of Humanities, Manipur University delivered a lecture on "The contribution of Khaidem Pramodini in the realm of Manipuri literature" .

In addition, film actress RK Hemabati and All India Radio approved singers Wangkheirakpam Chandrasakhi and Wangkheirakpam Kamala alias Sorojini presented renditions of the songs whose lyrics were penned by the late writer.

Moreover, two children namely, Chingakham Princess and Chingakham Katy recalled the works of Khaidem Pramodini by reciting a rhyme version of the song "Thashi Upal", another lyrical contribution of the author .

Speaking as the chief guest, Professor Rajen Toijamba pointed out that beyond the field of literature, Khaidem Pramodini was also involved in performing arts and public welfare efforts.

"Her birth in the State of Manipur is a source of pride for us all", he added.

Kshetrimayum Subadani, president, LEIKOL asserted that the establishment of the organisation, which is the first one solely for women writers, was made possible because of pioneering female author Khaidem Pramodini.

In fact, the name LEIKOL was given by the late author and she was one of the first editors, Subadani added.

Khaidem Pramodini wrote and published more than 40 books and worked tirelessly for the advancement of Manipuri literature.

In honour of her invaluable contribution, LEIKOL is set to organise an event every month for a whole year in celebration of her 100th birth anniversary, she shared.

Meanwhile, G Dharmadas Sharma, Deputy Director, Art & Culture highlighted the assistance provided to writers under the Chief Minister gi Artistsingi Tengbang (CMHT) scheme. Adding that a sum of Rs 1 lakh and Rs 50,000 respectively are awarded to Sahitya Akademi and Yuva Puraskar Awardees, he maintained that the Art & Culture Department will continue to work towards the welfare of writers.

On the other hand, Naharol Sahitya Premi Samiti, Imphal also organised an inaugural ceremony of year long observation of 100th birth anniversary of Khaidem Pramodini at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) .

Paying of floral tributes to the photo of the eminent writer and observance of one minute silence in the honour of the conflict martyrs marked the commencement of the programme.

Addressing the gathering, Naharol Sahitya Premee Samiti vice-president said that Khaidem Pramodini was one among the notable women writers of Manipur and highlighted her significant contributions in the field of literature.

He maintained that she also played a vital role in encouraging and promoting women writers in the State.

A number of activities will be carried out during the year-long birth anniversary observation in the honour of the writer, he added.

During the programme, former Dean of Manipur University, Professor Polem Nabachandra spoke on the topic 'Manipuri Sahitya da Khaidem Pramodini gi khudol' .

Former Art and Culture Minister, Dr M Nara graced the occasion as the chief guest wherein the quarterly edition of 'Wakhal' journal was released.

In the second session of the programme, various literary awards were presented by Naharol Sahitya Premee Samiti.

The second session was graced by DM University Vice-Chancellor, Professor N Rajmuhon, Naharol Sahitya Premi Samiti president, Naoroibam Indramani and JNMDA Director, P Bilash as the presidium members.