Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, July 28, 2026: The rippling waters of Loktak Lake have long been the silent witness to Manipur's greatest tales of love, valor, and tragedy. On Tuesday, these historic shores became a poignant backdrop for honoring the man who immortalized those very legends. The 134th birth anniversary of Mahakavi Hijam Anganghal, the undisputed titan of modern Manipuri literature, was commemorated with deep reverence and poetic fervor, bringing together the region's finest literary minds.
Hosted collaboratively by the Poets Foundation, Manipur Chapter, and Sahitya Thoupanglup (Sathoulup), the commemorative event unfolded at the auditorium of Ibenthou Resort in Hanubi Ching, overlooking the iconic lake. The gathering served not just as a remembrance of a historical figure, but as a vibrant affirmation that Manipuri literary traditions remain dynamic and deeply rooted in the cultural consciousness of the people.
A Gathering of Literary Custodians
The presidium of the event was a remarkable assembly of literary leaders who have dedicated their lives to the promotion of indigenous language and arts. The collective presence of these figures underscored the gravity of Anganghal's enduring influence on contemporary writers across the Northeast.
- Saratchand Thiyam: Chairman of the Poets Foundation, Manipur Chapter, and a distinguished Sahitya Akademi Awardee.
- B. Bishambhor Sharma: Respected Advisor to Sahitya Thoupanglup (Sathoulup).
- Birbabu Laishram: President of Loktak Khorjeilup, a key figure in regional literary circles.
- Naoroibam Khamba Luwang: President of the Patriotic Writers Forum Manipur.
- Thoudam Netrajit: President of the Fiction & Poetry Club.
The ceremony commenced by breathing life into the Mahakavi's own words. Instead of opening with standard organizational addresses, young and emerging writer Rakesh Naorem took the stage to deliver a powerful recitation of "Thoubandong Ningaidabi," one of Anganghal's celebrated poems. Hearing the cadence of Anganghal’s original Manipuri verses echoing near the shores of Loktak set an emotional tone for the day, bridging the gap between the poet's era and the present generation.
Contextualizing the Legend: Who Was Mahakavi Anganghal?
To truly grasp the significance of this gathering, one must understand the monumental weight of Hijam Anganghal's contributions. Born in an era when written Manipuri literature was navigating its modern identity, Anganghal emerged as a visionary who wove the rich oral traditions of the land into structured, breathtaking poetry. He is best known for single-handedly penning the epic Khamba Thoibi, a magnum opus that spans approximately 39,000 lines.
The epic details the legendary, tragic love story of an orphaned hero, Khamba, and a noble princess, Thoibi, set within the ancient kingdom of Moirang. By capturing the intricate social structures, spiritual beliefs, and vibrant traditions of the Meitei people, Anganghal did more than write a story; he preserved a civilization's soul. Earning the title of Mahakavi (Great Poet), his work remains the foundational text for anyone studying Manipuri culture, folklore, and linguistic heritage.
"Anganghal and Today": Bridging Past and Present
Following floral tributes offered to a portrait of the late literary giant, the intellectual core of the event was delivered by scholar Oinam Chittaranjan. Presenting a compelling keynote address titled "Anganghal and Today," Chittaranjan explored how a poet born over a century ago continues to offer vital commentary on modern societal struggles.
Chittaranjan dissected Anganghal's philosophical frameworks, pointing out that the themes of justice, human resilience, and identity found in his epics are incredibly relevant in 2026. As indigenous communities across Northeast India navigate rapid globalization and the threat of cultural dilution, Anganghal’s extensive body of work serves as an anchor. The keynote challenged the audience to not merely worship the poet as a historical artifact, but to actively apply his vision of cultural pride to contemporary literature and social discourse.
Reflections from the Lake's Edge
The emotional resonance of the venue was a recurring theme throughout the afternoon. Saratchand Thiyam, speaking on behalf of the Poets Foundation, articulated the profound connection between the poet and the landscape. Loktak Lake and its surrounding plains of Moirang are the exact geographical canvas upon which the Khamba-Thoibi epic was painted.
"To celebrate the birth anniversary of our revered Mahakavi Hijam Anganghal right here in the lap of Mother Loktak feels incredibly profound," Thiyam remarked to the gathering. "This is the very landscape that houses the soul of our only great epic, Khamba Thoibi. To offer our floral tributes and respect to him on these shores is a beautiful testament that Manipuri literature is not only surviving—it is expanding and thriving every single day."
Thiyam expanded on the broader mission of the day's event, emphasizing that Hijam Anganghal is a source of immense pride for the entire region. The ultimate goal of events orchestrated by Sathoulup and the Poets Foundation is to propel Anganghal’s philosophical ideologies and literary genius beyond regional borders, ensuring his work is recognized on the global literary stage.
A Living Tradition of Verse
Proving that Anganghal’s legacy continues to inspire new creation, the latter half of the program transitioned into a vibrant poetry reading session. Around 25 poets—ranging from seasoned veterans to fresh, emerging voices—took turns presenting their original works. This dynamic exchange of ideas, metaphors, and socio-political reflections demonstrated the healthy, evolving state of the region's literary ecosystem.
Such initiatives by Sathoulup, as confirmed by Secretary Mayanglambam Uttamkumar, are crucial. They provide a necessary platform for writers to congregate, critique, and encourage one another, ensuring that the heavy mantle left behind by pioneers like Anganghal is carried forward by capable hands.
As the sun dipped lower over the floating phumdis of Loktak Lake, the 134th birth anniversary celebration drew to a close. Yet, the echoes of recited poetry and the renewed commitments to indigenous literature lingered in the air. The gathering was a powerful reminder that a society’s strength lies in its stories, and as long as there are voices willing to tell them, the legacy of Mahakavi Hijam Anganghal will remain unbroken.
✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team
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