Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, September 24, 2026: For 55 years, the Assam Manipuri Kala Akademi (AMKA) has stood as a guardian of art, history, and tradition in the Barak Valley. On Thursday, the local community gathered at the Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Kala Tirtha Hall in Itkhola, Silchar-1, to celebrate the institution's 55th Foundation Day. It was a proud day to look back at the past half-century and plan for the future of the Meitei community in Assam.
The Historical Role of AMKA in Barak Valley
To understand the importance of this event, we have to look at the history of the region. The Manipuri community has a deep-rooted history in Assam, especially in the Cachar district and surrounding areas. For generations, they have held onto their unique language, dance, music, and traditions while being an active part of Assam's wider society.
Institutions like the Assam Manipuri Kala Akademi were built by early community leaders to make sure the younger generations do not lose touch with their roots. In a modern world where local languages and arts often fade away, AMKA has served as a safe training ground. Over the last 55 years, the Akademi has trained thousands of students and kept the local cultural scene alive. According to administrative updates from local cultural boards, supporting such institutions remains key to keeping the diverse identity of the Northeast intact.
A Day of Tradition and Respect
According to the official press release, the grand event was led by AMKA Chairperson Sri Laishram Manglemba, who acted as the meeting president. The organizers welcomed a long list of respected guests from across the state and beyond.
The program started on a high note with music. Gurus and teachers of the Akademi sang patriotic songs to welcome the gathering and set a respectful mood. Following local customs, the Akademi members honored all the guests on stage by offering them a traditional 'lengyanphee'. After this warm welcome, Chief Guest Smt. Reena Devi officially opened the program by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
The event brought together many prominent figures. The honored guests on the stage included:
- Smt. Reena Devi: Chairperson, Manipuri Development Council (MDC) Assam (Chief Guest)
- Sjt. M. Surya Kumar Sharma: Distinguished Guest
- Sri Kangabam Shanti Kumar, ACS: Retired Joint Secretary, Govt. of Assam (Special Guest)
- Sri R.K. Gopalsana: Retired Secretary, Department of Irrigation (Guest of Honour)
- Dr. K.N. Chand: Member, Manipuri Language Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi (Guest of Honour)
- Sri Leisungbam Rabindra Singha: Vice Chairman, Lakhipur Municipality Board (Guest of Honour)
- Smt. Sougaijam Ongbi Kananbala: Ex-Chairperson, AMKA (Guest of Honour)
- Smt. Manimala Devi: Principal in-charge, AMKA (Guest of Honour)
Voices of the Community: Looking at the Past and Future
The main focus of the meeting was the rich history of the Meetei people and the long journey of the Akademi. Several speakers took the stage to talk about the hurdles the institution has faced and the hard work it takes to keep it running year after year.
Speakers like Adv. Ng. Ramakanta and Kh. Bimbhabati Devi discussed the importance of working together. The leaders stressed the need for the entire Meetei community to unite and build a better future. They thanked the founders and the current teachers for their non-stop dedication to the Akademi.
The Call for "Meetei Consciousness"
As the event moved forward, AMKA Chairperson Sri L. Manglemba gave a strong presidential speech. He reminded the crowd that it is their primary duty to protect the arts and traditions passed down by their ancestors. He made a firm point about identity, asking the public to put their shared culture above everything else.
"No matter our differences in religion or our regional and national political choices, we must never forget our 'Meetei Consciousness'. We are one community, and we must keep our shared identity alive," Manglemba urged the gathering.
Next Steps for the Akademi
Before the event wrapped up, AMKA General Secretary K. Birojit Singha delivered the vote of thanks. He expressed his gratitude to all the guests and community members who attended. He also took the time to share some of the current problems the Akademi is dealing with right now, asking for support from the leaders and the public to fix these issues soon.
As the Assam Manipuri Kala Akademi steps into its 56th year, the event served as a clear reminder of the work that still needs to be done. The community members left the hall with a shared goal: to protect their history, fix the Akademi's current problems, and build a stronger society in Assam.
✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team
