IMPHAL, February 4: In commemoration of the 284th year of the burning of Puya, the International Committee on Puya mei thaba (ICOP), Meitei National Front (MNF) Kangleipak, Manipur State Shumang Leela Council, All Manipur recognized Pvt School Welfare Associatio observed a function today at Iboyaima shanglen, Palace compound. The observation of Puya mei thaba was attended by the titular King of Manipur Leisemba Sanajaoba, RV Mingthing, Chairman (ICOP) MNF and others including Prof Sairem Nilabir and Mutum Bahadur, PR Parhoi Chothe, Purum Chubang village chief and Thangal Surung village chief.
The observation was launched with a mass rally starting from the Iboyaima Shanglen to Kangla Uttra where floral tribute was paid to the holy place. The rally ended at Iboyaima shanglen where a function was held.
It may be noted that from February 2 last year, students of Sacred Heart Hr Sec School have been observing the “Black Day Observation” by wearing black badges.
MSSLC secretary, Sh Hemanta speaking at the function said that Shantidas Gosai burnt down the Meiteis` ancient books of scriptures known as Puya written in Meitei script in front of Kangla Uttra in Imphal on the 23rd day of the month of Wakching (Manipuri calendar) in 1729 AD. Shantidas was a Hindu preacher from Sylhet who converted the then King Pamheiba of Manipur to Hinduism in 1717 AD. Under the behest of the Hindu preacher, Pamheiba ordered his men to burn Puya, the Meitei scriptures, he added.
At the function, Leishemba Sanajaoba awarded ‘Maichou Ningshing Mana’ to Sanabam Khamba and ‘Ching-tam Nungsi Mana to Joshua Luikang Maram. The award has a cash amount of Rs 10,000 each and a certificate.
As part of the commemoration function, a drama “Puya Mei Thaba” was performed at Rupmahal theatre Drama while another play “Kangleipakta 1709” was showcased at Iboyaima Sanglen.