Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, April 26, 2026: In a poignant display of cultural resilience and forward-thinking community leadership, the Manipuri diaspora in Assam recently gathered for a multifaceted event that seamlessly blended traditional heritage with modern career empowerment. Balancing the joy of indigenous festivities with the heavy hearts of a community affected by ongoing regional strife, the event served as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of the Northeast.
On Sunday, April 19, the Manipuri Leimalup Eastern Guwahati organized its 3rd annual gathering at Jorabat, Guwahati. The event was primarily centered around the Sajibu Chaklen (Traditional Meitei New Year Feast) and the indigenous game of Kangthro, aiming to foster unity among children and families. The proceedings were gracefully conducted by Branch Secretary Ahongsangbam Romibala Devi and presided over by the organization's President, NG. Vijaya Keisham.
A Solemn Tribute to the Victims of Manipur Violence
Before the cultural festivities could begin, the gathering paused to acknowledge the ongoing unrest in their home state. The event opened with a deeply emotional tribute to the lives lost in the continuing Manipur crisis, specifically remembering a tragic incident that unfolded in the early hours of April 7.
Members of the Leimalup expressed profound grief over the heartbreaking loss of two children—Oinam Thoi Thoi and a 5-month-old infant, Yaisna—along with three protesters who perished in the violence. To honor the departed souls, members offered floral tributes and lit Meira (candles).
A heavy one-minute silence was observed by all attendees, standing in collective prayer. Following this, young children took to the stage to recite Manipuri poetry in their mother tongue, dedicating their heartfelt verses to the departed souls.
Background & Context: Preserving Culture Amidst Crisis
For the Manipuri diaspora residing in Guwahati and the broader Assam region, maintaining cultural roots is vital for community cohesion. Sajibu Chaklen represents more than just a feast; it is a profound cultural gathering tied to the Meitei lunar new year, emphasizing reconciliation, familial bonds, and shared prosperity.
Similarly, the inclusion of Kangthro—a traditional indoor game played primarily by women and girls using kang —serves as a living link to ancestral traditions. In an era dominated by digital entertainment, passing down these indigenous games to the younger generation is a crucial act of cultural preservation.
By holding onto these traditions even during times of socio-political distress, organizations like the Manipuri Leimalup provide psychological anchoring and a safe space for communal healing.
Empowering the Next Generation: AI and Skill Development
Transitioning from the emotional morning session, the organizers shifted focus toward securing the future of their youth. An arts competition was held for the younger children, while a targeted "Career Counseling and Skill Development Session" was arranged for young adults aged 18 to 28.
Recognizing the rapidly shifting landscape of global employment, the session was centered on a highly relevant topic: "AI Inclusion in Today’s Employer Job Market." This segment was hosted in collaboration with the Anudip Foundation, Guwahati.
Sorokhaibam Lamnganbi Chanu, a Senior Soft Skill Faculty member, led the counseling. She provided vital guidance on skill development and raised awareness about Artificial Intelligence (AI) courses. Her session underscored the necessity for Northeastern youth to adapt to technological advancements to remain competitive in modern job markets.
Impact on Local Community / Region
This gathering in Jorabat highlights the evolving role of regional women’s organizations. The Manipuri Leimalup Eastern Guwahati has moved beyond simply organizing cultural meet-ups; they are actively acting as local incubators for youth development and mental well-being.
For the Manipuri community in Assam, such initiatives provide a dual benefit. They offer a strong support system for families distressed by the news from their home state, while simultaneously ensuring that their youth are not left behind in the rapidly digitizing Indian economy.
By bringing in professional organizations like the Anudip Foundation, the Leimalup is actively bridging the gap between traditional community support and modern corporate readiness.
Why This Matters / Key Takeaways
- Resilience Through Culture: The continuation of the 3rd annual Sajibu Chaklen demonstrates the community's commitment to passing down indigenous practices, such as Kangthro, to the next generation.
- Honoring the Fallen: The heartfelt tributes, including poetry recitations by children, emphasize the deep empathy and collective trauma shared by the diaspora regarding the ongoing violence in Manipur.
- Future-Ready Youth: Integrating a seminar on AI and modern employability into a traditional festival highlights a progressive approach to community upliftment, preparing young adults for real-world challenges.
- Women-Led Leadership: The successful execution of this multidimensional event underscores the vital organizational capabilities of women-led groups in Northeast India.
The day concluded harmoniously with the much-anticipated Sajibu Chaklen (feast) in the afternoon. Afterward, young girls and married women enthusiastically participated in matches of Kangthro, bringing the event to a graceful and spirited close. The gathering stood as a perfect example of honoring the past while actively building a brighter, more capable future.
✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team