Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, March 1, 2026: In a vibrant display of cultural pride and linguistic devotion, the Thaugan Marup, Jaffirbond, Hailakandi successfully hosted the 70th Ema Ningshingba Numit (Mother's Remembrance Day) on March 1, 2026. The grand observance took place at the Yaifa Sanglen of Thaugan Marup, located in Leishramkhun Mamang Leikai, drawing a large gathering of literature enthusiasts, community leaders, and students.
The event stands as a monumental testament to the relentless efforts of the Manipuri diaspora in Assam to preserve their mother tongue and ancestral traditions. By engaging the younger generation through literature and performing arts, the organizers aim to bridge the gap between historical heritage and modern cultural identity in the Barak Valley.
Morning Tributes and Student Engagements
The day-long program commenced at 8:00 AM with the hoisting of the organizational flag by Nepram Monindra Singha, President of the Lup (Committee/Organization). This solemnact was immediately followed by a profound floral tribute dedicated to Meitei Ema (Mother Meitei), where attendees paid their collective respects to the motherland and mother tongue.
To nurture the literary talents of the younger generation, a poetry recitation competition (seireng seidanakhi) was organized for Lower Primary (LP) and Middle English (ME) school students. The morning session also witnessed the felicitation of several distinguished personalities who have made notable contributions to the society.
Background & Context: The Significance of Meitei Ema
For the uninitiated, the concept of Meitei Ema goes beyond a literal translation of "Mother Meitei." In the socio-cultural fabric of the Meitei community residing outside Manipur, particularly in regions like Cachar, Hailakandi, and Lakhipur, it symbolizes the personification of the Ema Lon (Mother Tongue). Honoring Meitei Ema is equivalent to pledging protection to the language, script, and indigenous identity against the rapid currents of assimilation.
Observances like the Ema Ningshingba Numit serve as vital cultural anchors. They remind the linguistic minority communities in Assam's Barak Valley of their roots, ensuring that folklore, literature, and indigenous values are seamlessly passed down to the millennials and Gen Z.
A Gathering of Literary Minds and Dignitaries
The formal assembly was presided over by Nepram Monindra Singha as the Mifam Mapu. The event was graced by Naorem Bidyasagar as the Chief Guest (Mithunglen), who inaugurated the cultural segment by lighting the ceremonial lamp (Meira chukhatpa). The inaugural song (seihou esei) was beautifully presented by the renowned singing troupe Seisaklup Jaribond.
The dias was shared by a host of esteemed Guests of Honour, including Asem Mani, Kalyan Goswami, Leirenllakpam Champalal, and Haobam Manisana. Additionally, Bimola Sharma and Chongtham Babuton Dias enriched the gathering with their presence as Special Guests. Moirengjam Chinglen delivered a warm welcome address, setting a collaborative tone for the day's proceedings.
Major Book Launches by Sing and Sons Publication
A major highlight of the event was the literary release session hosted by Sing and Sons Publication, Jaribond. The publication house unveiled three significant literary works, adding valuable assets to the regional Manipuri literature repository:
- 'Laibak na Tamba': A captivating collection of short stories penned by acclaimed author Naorem Indira.
- 'Khanghauba khara Tahauba khara': An essential educational book focused on the fundamentals and history of learning the mother tongue, authored by Subram.
- 'Karmana Dharmani': A deeply reflective poetry collection by poet Soram Binota Singha.
Following the book launch, prominent speakers Naorem Angousana and Dr. Ningheiba Meisnam delivered insightful keynote addresses. They elaborated on the current landscape of regional literature and the pressing need to encourage local writers.
Impact on the Local Community and Barak Valley Region
Events of this magnitude have a profound socio-educational impact on the Barak Valley. By facilitating a platform where seasoned authors and young school students share the same space, the Thaugan Marup is actively decentralizing literary growth.
The publication of new books locally also injects vitality into the regional publishing ecosystem, encouraging aspiring writers from Assam's Manipuri community to document their unique socio-cultural narratives.
Why This Matters / Key Takeaways
The 70th Ema Ningshingba Numit is a clear indicator that regional languages and localized cultural preservation are alive and flourishing. The key takeaway from this gathering is the undeniable link between language and identity. As long as community organizations like Thaugan Marup continue to foster grassroots engagement, the linguistic heritage of the region will remain secure.
The grand observance concluded with a series of addresses from the dignitaries and guests, wrapping up with a heartfelt vote of thanks (Thagat wahei) delivered by Laurembam Joykanta, marking the successful end of a historically significant day for Hailakandi.
✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team