Manipuri writer of Bangladesh awarded Mahakavi Anganghal Award

Our Correspondent Imphal, July 28 (EMN): Mahakavi Anganghal Award 2018 was presented to Manipuri writer of Bangladesh, Ananta Kumar Sheram popularly known as AK Sheram in a function jointly organised by Sahitya Thoupang Lup and Hijam Romani Memorial Trust, Imphal at Manipur Dramatic Union Hall here on Saturday. The award carries INR 10,000 along with a citation and a shawl. The award was conferred to him in recognition of his role and contributions in promotion of Manipuri language, literature and culture in Bangaladesh. Speaker Manipur Legislative Assembly Y. Khemchand, President Hijam Romani Memorial Trust Dr. Soibam Ibocha, IPS (Retd), Consumers affairs food and public distribution department Minister Shri Karam Shyam and Editor Bhaskor, Bangladesh Pulin Roy attended the occasion as the chief guest, president and guests of honour. Delivering his speech, speaker Khemchand said he had visited Bangladesh last year. He was informed that Manipuri’s were there at Dhaka, the capital and largest city of Bangladesh. But they all fled the city during the Bangladesh and Pakistan war of 1971. So, he wanted to erect a statue of historical figure of the state to Dhaka and asked to Bangladesh personalities who attended the programme for official approach to Manipur Governor. As the matter concern for two countries, it needs to be send to Ministry of External Affairs further. The approach may be by all Manipuri’s of Bangladesh or Manipuri Association of the country and will extend his helping hand, assured by the chief guest. Minister Karam Shyam said Manipuri society is full of problems and issues. It is no doubt to state that writers can push the society in the right direction and bring peace and harmony. He appealed to the concerned for writing on….how to remove ego, apart from striking on social problems and issues. Later, “Indo-Bangla Poets Meet” was also held. Eminent poets from Bangladesh along with other renowned poets from Manipur including Tangkhul, Paite, Chothe, Chiru, Nepali amongst other participated in the programme.