Sahitya Parishad celebrates, distributes awards
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 10 2025: Manipuri Sahitya Parishad celebrated its 91st foundation day and 90th annual meeting on Sunday with the distribution of degrees, monetary awards, and literary prizes recognising achievements in literature and various art forms.

The event, jointly organised with JN Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) at the latter's auditorium, Honoured distinguished figures in Manipuri art and culture.

On the occasion, Sahityabushan Upadhi was awarded to Nongmaithem Tombi Singh and Lamabam Birmani Singh, while Sahitya Sevak Upadhi was presented to Raheijuddin Sheikh (Shamu) .

Sangeetbushan Upadhi was presented to Samurailatpam Nimai Sharma for Nata Sankirtana, Moirangthem Tikendra for contemporary songs, and Chaoba Kamson for Kabui folk song.

Natyabushan Upadhi recipients included Rajkumar Sanajaoba for stage plays, Rajkumar Sanayaima for Goura Lila, and Kshetrimayum Birjit for Shumang Leela.

Sahitya Parishad celebrates, distributes awards

Sagolsem Yashoda received the Nirtyabushan Upadhi for Ras dance, Louriyam Thaba Leima Kalabushan Upadhi for Thang-ta, and Hajarimayum Shyamkeshor Sharma for storytelling.

Thangjam Dashrat was awarded Kalaratan Upadhi for book recital, and Badhyabudhan Upadhi to Tekcham Radheshyam.

Parishad monetary awards recipients included Keisham Priyokumar Singh, Brahmacharimayum Gopiramon Sharma, Nongmaithem Loken Singh, Wairokpam Kamini Singh, Moirangthem Kumar Singh, Rajkumar Upendra Singh, and Naoroibam Binoy Singh.

Literary prizes were awarded to Nahakpam Aruna for 'Ahingba Upanyash' and Dr Athokpam Kholchandra for 'Manipuri Warimacha Neinaba'.

Manipur University vice-chancellor Prof Naorem Lokendro, speaking as chief guest, called the Parishad "a precious and important part of Manipuri society", founded by Nikhil Manipuri Mahasabha to protect and promote the community's art, culture, and literature.

He highlighted its historical role since 1935 in initiatives such as documenting Manipur's history and promoting Thang-Ta, and urged researchers to study its contributions to socio-economic arid political change.

Prof Lokendro highlighted the state's global achievements in sports, theatre, literature, and performing arts, but said that political organisation and economic modernisation lag behind.

He called for collective efforts to modernise the economy and attract global investment.

The event was presided over by Parishad secretary Longjam Joychandra, with Manipur State Kala Akademi secretary Sunanda Thokchom as guest of honour.

A quarterly newsletter of the Parishad was also released on the occasion.