Manipur governor releases novel titled ‘Peeshumlei’

Our Correspondent

Imphal, April 27 (EMN): Manipur Governor Dr. Najma Heptulla on Saturday released the novel ‘Peeshumlei” authored by Prof. (L) N Tombi Singh at Raj Bhavan in Imphal.

Prof. Singh was an educationist, seasoned politician, writer, journalist and cultural activist.

In recognition of his valuable contribution in the field of literature, he was posthumously awarded Gang Sharan Award and Sahitya Bhushan by Manipuri Sahitya Parishad in 2002. The book is the author’s first novel written in Manipuri describing the state of affairs in Manipur during the reign of Bhagyachandra Maharaj and several kings before him in the 18th century.

Releasing the book, Dr. Heptulla said that the novel will be a popular socio-political narrative of immense historical and cultural value.

Prof. Singh had carved out a distinct identity for himself in public life and also in the literary sphere as a prolific writer. He strived to serve the people and enrich Manipuri literature simultaneously experimenting with many forms of writing novels, poems, essays and plays, she said.

His contributions to the growth of Manipuri language and art and culture have been widely acknowledged by scholars, she added.

Expressing happiness on the three works of the author in English namely — Khamba and Thoibi, Manipur A Study and Manipur and the Mainstream, the governor said that he have earned wide acclaim not only in the state but also outside the state.

The novel “Peeshumlei” is a praiseworthy endeavour on the part of the author as he presents before the readers a convincing picture relating to the cultural and social life of the people of that time. It underlines their hardship, exploitation and shows how they nurtured and cherished their identity in the face of daunting challenges, the governor said.

Pointing out that literature has a major social responsibility and can have an inspirational influence when it explores issues which are of great importance, she said it makes unconscious and aware of the plight of the people.

To build a strong nation and an enlightened society, writers can highlight the social issues by creating awareness amongst the people through their writings, she added.

Stating that the style and usage of language in the book will add flavour and further enriched the Manipuri language, she said that Prof. Singh will continue to be a source of inspiration to the young writers and poets.

Presenting a preview of the novel, former president of Manipur Sahitya Parishad and eminent scholar Dr. Nongmaithem Tombi Singh said that the novel  is a historical fiction set against the background of King Bhagyachandra, a lover of art and culture, who founded the popular “Ras leela and natsangkritan” of Manipur.

The novel reflects the religious and cultural tradition of the people of Manipur. Indeed the novel is a useful social documentation, he added.

A recital of the epilogue of the novel was presented by Laihui Ensemble as part of the launching of the novel.