Governor inaugurates ceremony component of Sanamahism
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 20 2023:
Governor Anusuiya Uikey inaugurated 'Rites-de-passage of Sanamahism", a demonstration cum performance programme at Lainingthou Sanamahi Shanglen, Haying Khongbal today.
The 'Rites-de-passage of Sanamahism" was launched as part of a 15-day workshop which began on November 11.Today, the Governor was accorded a ritual reception at her arrival at the Temple by Amaiba, Pena and Amaibi Loishang along with a traditional guard of honour by Kabui Loishang.
To mark the occasion, the Governor offered prayer to Goddess Ima Leimarel Shidabi and Supreme Lord Lainingthou Sanamahi and also planted a tree sapling at the site of the sacred pond, said PRO Raj Bhavan in a statement.
She also witnessed the traditional method of extraction of sacred fire (Meiba Chingba/ Mairapmei) by the Kabui community.
Anusuiya Uikey further handed over appreciation certificates to resource persons of the workshop.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor expressed her pride in the unique and beautiful culture, religion and tradition of Manipur and said she has not come across such cultural richness elsewhere.
She urged the people to hold on to their roots and promote Manipur's culture to people all over the world.
The Sanamahi religion, prevalent among the Meitei people of Manipur State, has the tradition of worshipping ancestors.
Worshipping ancestors is expressing gratitude for their blessings, the Governor said.
She continued that the rites of Sanamahi religion - Pokpa (birth), Luhongba (marriage) Korou Nonggaba (death) reflect the religious philosophy of Meitei Sanamahi.
She lauded Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple Board and Manipur Cultural University for organizing the workshop on the rites of Sanamahi religion since 2022 with an aim to bring awareness about the rich cultural heritage of the State among all the members of the community.
The Governor also appealed to all for their cooperation in promoting peace, harmony, brotherhood and love in the State.
She urged all not to believe in any kind of rumour, and instead cooperate with the administration and security forces in making the State prosperous and peaceful like before.
Governor Anusuiya Uikey also took part in the Meira Thougal (Evening Lighting Prayer).
Vidyapati Senjam, vice president, Sanamahi Temple Board and Professor P Gunindro, Vice Chancellor, Manipur University of Culture also graced the occasion.