Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, December 8, 2025: In a significant step towards documenting and celebrating the evolution of Manipuri literature, the Sahitya Akademi and Leimarol Khorjeikol (LEIKOL) joined hands to organize a one-day symposium in Imphal. The event, held on Saturday, focused on a pivotal theme: "The Current Trends of Women's Short Story Writing in Manipuri Literature from 1980 Onwards."
The symposium, hosted at the DIPR Auditorium in Imphal, brought together distinguished scholars, writers, and critics to analyze how women's narratives have shaped the literary landscape of Manipur over the last four decades.
Inauguration and Key Figures
The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Prof. Rajen Toijamba, Convenor of the Manipuri Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi. His presence underscored the national importance of the regional discourse being fostered by the Akademi.
Presiding over the function was Chongtham Subadani Devi, President of LEIKOL, who highlighted the organization's commitment to providing a platform for women writers. The welcome address was delivered by A.C. Netrajit, Member of the Manipuri Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, setting a warm and intellectual tone for the day. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by G.A. Ghanapriya Devi, Secretary of LEIKOL.
Academic Sessions and Critical Discourse
The symposium was divided into two rigorous academic sessions, each featuring prominent voices in Manipuri literature who presented papers on various nuances of the theme.
The first session was chaired by Dr. Ch. Sheelaramani. This session saw insightful paper presentations from:
* K. Hemchandra
* Dr. Lamabam Gojendra
* Prof. Koijam Shantibala Devi
* Dr. H. Roybala Devi
The second session continued the deep dive into the subject, chaired by Prof. N. Aruna. The panel of experts presenting papers included:
* Prof. W. Kumari Chanu
* Dr. Longjam Sangeeta Devi
* Dr. B. Tarunkumari Devi
* Dilip Mayengbam
Why This Era Matters
The period from 1980 onwards represents a crucial turning point in Manipuri society, marked by socio-political shifts and modernization. Women writers during this era began to move beyond traditional themes, exploring complex issues of identity, conflict, and resilience. This symposium provided a necessary space to critique and appreciate these shifting trends.
"Literature is the mirror of society, but for a long time, the specific lens of the woman writer was under-discussed," remarked one of the attendees. "Events like these are vital because they don't just celebrate the past; they pave the way for future storytellers to understand their heritage."
Conclusion
The collaboration between a national body like the Sahitya Akademi and a dedicated local organization like LEIKOL proves that the future of Manipuri literature is in safe hands. By documenting the trends of the last 45 years, the symposium has created a roadmap for understanding the powerful voice of Manipuri women in the literary world.
✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team
