IMPHAL, May 15: Endorsing the resolution of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad to exert pressure on the Central government to recognize Manipuri language as a classical language, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh assured that the government will take up necessary steps to ensure that the resolution is materialized as soon as possible.
He was speaking at an awards presentation ceremony in commemoration of the 81st foundation day of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad held at the auditorium of Maharaja Chandrakirti Hall, Palace Compound today.
Attending as chief guest, CM Ibobi applauded the Manipuri Sahitya Parishad for coming up with such awards presentation which will encourage artistes of the State.
He acknowledged the achievement of artistes of the State in different fields despite having limited resources and guidance.
Forefathers have left unforgettable treasures on traditional dance, theatre, literature and culture which the present generation should cherish and be proud of. The rich culture of the State has gained immense recognition across the world. This is due to the relentless efforts of artistes past and present, Ibobi said.
Maintaining that the present generation should show due respect to all those who are working to preserve the rich literature and culture of the State despite all odds, he asserted that it is due to the right guidance of gurus that the State is respected in the field of literature in the world.
He said that Manipuri Sahitya Parishad which was founded in 1935 is the oldest literary organization in the State.
Noting the role of the organization towards development of Manipuri language, literature and culture, the CM said that the government had always consulted with experts of the organization on the complex issues of language and literature.
He exuded confidence that office bearers of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad will work sincerely and with dedication to maintain the legacy of the organization.
Apart from sports and theatre, Manipuri dance is well recognized in the world for its unique and aesthetic style. But more efforts are needed to gain accolades in the field of literature, he said.
Ibobi observed that the State literature needs exposure in order to prove its high value to the world.
Stating that there is a need for poets and writers to translate literature of the State into different languages so that outside people could know about it, he said that other literary organizations should extend co-operation in this regard.
Once the Manipuri language is recognized as classical language then the language will gain status.
The Central government will also extend assistance to ensure that the language is well developed. Sensing this, the State government will provide all possible held to gain the recognition, he said.
Terming narrow minded, lack of unity and trust amongst the people as the main causes of main issues confronting the State, he fervently appealed to writers of the State to come up with their ideas and suggestions to resolve the issues.
He also emphasized on the need for consolidating literature in the hills as the valley alone could not do so.
Literary awards, gold medal and cash reward were presented to its recipients during the occasion.
Today’s ceremony was also attended by Member of Parliament (Inner) Dr Th Meinya as president and president of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad Thoidingjam Tombi Singh as guest of honour.
