Great tributes were paid to Arambam Samarendra during the observation of his 22nd death anniversary by the people of Manipur at his memorial complex, Khurai Nandeibam Leikai, Imphal on Friday. Prayers and floral tributes, presentation of songs and recitation of poems written by him mark the event.
Commemorating the contribution made by patriotic leader Arambam Samarendra for the betterment of Manipur society during his lifetime, the Social Standard Club (SSC) organised a programme at the memorial complex.
The programme began with a two-minutes silence observation. It was followed by singing of a patriotic song Chaikhre Ngasi. The song was written by Samarendra.
Addressing the function as chief guest, Pradhan of Khurai Nandeibam Leikai, Yumnam Chitra Devi said that Arambam Samarendra continues to live in the hearts and minds of people, and his selfless sacrifices for the state are remembered. How Arambam Samarendra led the state in the right direction is commendable, she said.
She recalled the incident where Arambam Samarendra was shot dead on this day while addressing a function.
“It is just like yesterday when the whole state mourned when he was martyred. The kind of literary work he did, be it in the poem, drama, patriotic songs etc. during his lifetime conveys a lot of strong messages. As with the help of all these artistic works, we cannot forget him till date,” she stated.
She appealed to the youths of the state to review, read and listen to the poems and songs written by Arambam Samarendra to revive the feeling of patriotism.
She also said that the future of the state is at stake caused by various reasons. As such, it is high time for the present generation to remember and recall the contribution made by Samarendra to save Manipur from any kind of eventualities that may destabilise the future of the state, the Pradhan stated.
Advisor of SSC, Salam Samungou said that Samarendra was a multi-faceted person with a strong desire to promote equality in the state.
Other dignitaries, who attended the function were SSC vice president, Ranbala Thokchom; Advisor of SSC, Salam Ibopishak; President of All Manipur Reformation and Development Association, Thokchom Ramani; President of Apunba Manipur Kanba Ima Lup, Lourembam Nganbi Devi and Secretary of Khurai Khunfamlen Leimarol Sintha Kanglup, Salam Muktabali as functional president and guests of honour respectively.
The Patriotic Writers Forum (PAWF), Manipur also observed the 22nd death anniversary of Arambam Samarendra at Manipur Press Club.
Attending the function as chief guest, chairman of Film Forum Manipur, Laimayum Surjakanta Sharma said that the death of Samarendra was a great loss for the state. His profound love for his motherland is praiseworthy and as a visionary artist, he had already expressed the issues and problems that are presently crippling in the state.
The contributions made by him even in the film industry extending good advice and suggestions are unforgettable, Sharma said. He also said that his multi-faceted character, straight forward nature and patience defined who he was.
Other dignitaries who attended the function were President of PAWF, Naoroibam Khamba Singh; Patron member of PAWF, Manipur, S Manaoton; Director of Krishpa Health Care and Consultancy Pvt Ltd, Dr Nongmaithem Santa Singh and President of PAWF, Tripura branch, Gurumayum Biplab as president, guest of honour and special guests respectively.
As a part of the observation, poetry recitation on the theme “Arambam Samarendra Sheitha Sheireng Sheidinaba” was also held. Paper was also presented in “Arambam Samarendragi Punshi amadi Thabak” by Umabati Athokpam.
In the morning PAWF conducted a floral tribute ceremony to Arambam Samarendra at Nungshikol Park, Chana.
(Photo: IFP)
Meanwhile, our Moreh correspondent added that the 22nd death anniversary of Arambam Samarendra was observed at the border town, Moreh on Friday.
The Meetei Council Moreh (MCM), Kha Nongpok Apunba Nupi Lup, Moreh and the AMSU Tengnoupal district committee jointly organised the death anniversary at MCM office Moreh.
Paying floral tributes to Arambam Samarendra and observing a two-minute silence in respect to the departed soul marked the occasion. Members from MCM, Meira paibis and AMSU Tengnoupal district committee also attended the programme.
On the sidelines of the event, MCM president M Thoiba said that Arambam Samarendra was a renowned artist, pioneer, writer and a social activist. He worked for the welfare of the society, peace and communal harmony of the state. “Therefore, every right thinking person should pay respect and honour the martyr,” he added.
