Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, August 13, 2026: Manipuri author Jayanta Konthoujam released four poetry collections at a literary programme organised by the Patriotic Writers Forum (PAWF) Manipur at the Loktak Hall of the Manipur Press Club in Imphal on August 12.
The four books released at the programme are Thawai Pareng, Ahingi Thabal, Wakhal Machu and Anouba Mahao. The simultaneous release brought together writers, poets, literary critics and others associated with Manipuri language and literature.
Four poetry collections released
The programme was attended by Sahitya Akademi Award winner Saratchand Thiyam as the Chief Guest. PAWF Manipur president Naoroibam Khamba Luwang presided over the event, while RK Nayansana Devi, former Chairperson of the Manipur State Social Welfare Board, attended as the Special Guest.
The four collections formed the central focus of the programme, with literary speakers discussing the themes and writing styles of the newly published works.
Literary discussions on the new books
Dr. Sarata Chandra Longzomba reviewed Thawai Pareng and Ahingi Thabal, while poet and translator Tongbram Amarjit discussed Wakhal Machu and Anouba Mahao.
The discussions provided an opportunity for the audience to hear critical perspectives on the author's poetry and the themes explored across the four collections.
Release held during Manipuri Language Day period
The programme also highlighted the significance of August in the history of the Manipuri language. August 20 is observed as Manipuri Language Day, marking the inclusion of Manipuri in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India in 1992.
The Constitution (Seventy-first Amendment) Act, 1992 added Manipuri, along with Konkani and Nepali, to the Eighth Schedule. The Act was published on August 20, 1992, and came into force on August 31, 1992.
Speaking at the programme, Saratchand Thiyam emphasised the role of writers and publishers in keeping the language and its literary tradition active for future generations.
Publisher describes the work behind the books
Anand Meitram, the publisher and nephew of Jayanta Konthoujam, spoke about the process of preparing the author's handwritten manuscripts for publication.
He described the conversion of the handwritten material into finished books as a challenging process and expressed satisfaction at seeing the manuscripts finally published in physical form.
Discussion on Manipuri communities across borders
The programme also moved beyond literature to discuss the relationship between Manipuri-speaking communities living in different parts of the region and across international borders.
Rakesh Naorem, Secretary of PAWF Manipur, spoke about the organisation's efforts to promote Manipuri language and culture among communities in Manipur, Assam's Barak Valley, Tripura and neighbouring countries.
He also raised the issue of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) system and its implications for foreign nationals seeking to enter protected areas. The Government of India requires foreigners to obtain the appropriate permit for entry into designated protected areas, subject to applicable rules and exemptions.
According to the organisers' discussion at the programme, easing such restrictions for Manipuri-speaking communities in neighbouring countries could help facilitate cultural and family exchanges. Any changes to the existing permit system, however, would be a matter for the competent authorities of the Government of India.
Literature as a link between communities
The book launch combined the celebration of new Manipuri poetry with a wider discussion about language, literature and cultural connections. The release of four collections by a single author also highlighted the continuing role of publishing in sustaining literary activity in the Manipuri language.
For readers and researchers interested in Manipuri literature, the four new collections add to the growing body of contemporary poetry being published in the language.
✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team
