Yairipok, January 03: The 33rd Foundation Day of Yairipok Thambalnu Sahitya Marup-cum-Library was observed today at the organisation’s premises at Bamol Leikai, Yairipok. The event, organised by the literary body, focused on promoting literary consciousness and preserving cultural values, and also witnessed the release of new literary works.
The programme was attended by MPCC President and MLA of Wangkhem Assembly Constituency, Keisham Meghachandra, as the Chief Guest. President of Yairipok Thambalnu Sahitya Marup-cum-Library, Rajendra Mutum, presided over the function, while former Convenor of the Manipuri Language Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, Nongmaithem Kirankumar, attended as the Guest of Honour.
As part of the programme, participants paid homage to departed souls who made significant contributions to the land and to the founding members and devoted workers of the Sahitya Marup and other literary organisations by observing two minutes of silence.
During the event, the Usham Nilachandra Ningshing Khorirol Maana–2025 (Manipur) award was conferred on noted writer Dr Haobam Nalini Devi for her poetry collection “Nungshithoiba.” The award carries a shawl, citation, and a cash prize of Rs 10,000. The award was presented by Chief Guest Keisham Meghachandra. The award is instituted in the memory of late Usham Nilachandra, an AIR Imphal-approved lyricist from Bamol Leikai, Yairipok, and father of Usham Niranjan, Vice-President of the Sahitya Marup-cum-Library.
Secretary Laitom Huikap presented the secretary’s report, while Award Committee Chairman Ningthempishak Wairokpam elaborated on the citation. Several individuals who have made notable contributions to the field of literature were also felicitated with mementoes in recognition of their services.
The programme also marked the release of two books—“Numidang Wairamshida,” a collection of articles by Raghubir Thiyam, founder president of the Sahitya Marup-cum-Library, and “Achetpa Maari,” a collection of short stories by M.F. Rahaman—both highlighting the literary identity of Manipur and Yairipok.
On the occasion, Nongmaithem Kirankumar reviewed “Numidang Wairamshida,” while Dr Sanasam Nabadwip reviewed “Achetpa Maari.”
