Imphal: The Governor of Manipur, Anusuiya Uikey inaugurated the demonstration cum performance classes of a 15-day workshop on ‘rites-de-passage” of Sanamahism held on Monday at Lainingthou Sanamahi Sanglen.
The governor was accorded a ritual reception upon her arrival at the temple by Amaiba, Pena and Amaibi Loisang along with a traditional Guard of Honour by Kabui Loisang. To mark the occasion, Governor Uikey offered prayer to Goddess Ima Leimarel Shidabi and Supreme Lord Lainingthou Sanamahi and also planted a tree sapling at the site of the sacred pond. She also witnessed the traditional method of extraction of sacred fire (Meiba Chingba/Mairapmei) by the Kabui community.
Anusuiya Uikey further handed over the appreciation certificate for Resource persons of the workshop.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor expressed her pride in the unique and beautiful culture, religion and tradition of Manipur and said she has not come across such cultural richness elsewhere. She urged the people to hold on to their roots and further promote it all over the world.
Governor Uikey was informed that the Sanamahi religion is a religious tradition prevalent among the Meitei people of Manipur state of India. It is also called Sanamahism and has a tradition of worshipping ancestors. It is very important to worship our ancestors as worshipping them is expressing gratitude for their blessings, she asserted. She stated that the rituals of any community are a mirror of the religious beliefs of that community. She continued that rites of the Sanamahi religion – Pokpa (birth), Luhongba (marriage) Korou Nongaba (death) rites reflect the religious philosophy of Meitei Sanamahi.
She lauded Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple Board and Manipur Cultural University for organizing workshops on the rites of Sanamahi religion from the year 2022 with an aim to bring awareness about the rich cultural heritage of the state among all the members of the community. The workshop has been organized for individuals of all age groups so that all the persons interested in knowing the Manipuri culture can participate in it.
Governor Uikey also appealed to all for their cooperation in establishing the spirit of peace, harmony, brotherhood and love in the state. She urged all not to believe in any kind of rumour, instead cooperate with the administration and security forces and help in making the state as prosperous and peaceful as before.
Governor Anusuiya Uikey also took part in the Meira Thougal (Evening Lighting Prayer).
Vice President, Sanamahi Temple Board, Vidyapati Senjam, and Vice-Chancellor, Manipur University of Culture, Prof. P. Gunindro, also attended the occasion as president and guest of honour respectively.
