IMPHAL, October 7: Eminent scholar of the state, Prof Gangmumei Kamei and Lamyanba Publications Managing Trustee A Birendra today jointly released the second edition of Dr Leishangthem Chandramani Singh’s “The Boundaries of Manipur” during a simple function at the Lamyanba Shanglen, Konung Lampak, Imphal.
Speaking on the occasion Dr Chandramani said, Manipur’s territory fluctuated according to the might of the Kings of Manipur and a detailed study by present researchers is needed to determine the boundary of Manipur at different periods of history.
The first edition of the book written by former Deputy Chief Minister, Dr L Chandramani Singh was released in 1970.
The second edition has been published by Pan Manipuri Youth League and printed at the Lamyanba Printers.
Eminent scholar and historian Dr M Kaoba Singh deliberated on the book written by former Dy CM Dr L Chandramani Singh and he said the book mostly depended on archival sources while also referring to secondary sources like the writings of British writers.
According to the preface of the book, the book which is written in English is based mainly on the author’s thesis for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy and has attempted to write on the boundaries of Manipur which is extended far and wide.
Speaking at the function, author Dr L Chandramani said his book describes a narrative of the boundaries of the state in the absence of any written document on the territories of Manipur. He however expressed his desire to see many more scholars, researchers add up to his work.
He stressed on the need of having a well written document on the boundaries of Manipur and its lost lands.
He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Pan Manipuri Youth League for all the help rendered during his effort to bring out his work.
Applauding the movement of Pan Manipuri Youth League Dr Chandramani said, the history of Manipur would have gone otherwise but for the intervention of the League.
He said, the League was responsible for making 13 August Patriots Day and 23 April Khongjom Day as state events
In his speech, Gangmumei Kamei said, the author is regarded as an eminent historian of the state.
The book contains the post-colonial historiography of the state and is a pioneer in the field, he said.
He added writers of such books believe in nationalism.
He further expressed that it would be great if the author could do an autobiography in the near future.