Imphal: Observing a society losing its once treasured culture and beautiful character, Rajkumar Meghen, former chairman of UNLF, Thursday called upon Manipur’s writers to devote some time to confront the ever-increasing influences from outside and protect it from being engulfed.
Culture is unquestionably a central topic in the contemporary social sciences. It evolved even before the formation of society. All human activities, including producing foods for survival, are part of it, said Meghen, while delivering a speech held to observe the 1st anniversary of ‘Apunba Khorirolgee Malemgee Lup’.
The former militant leader said, from the construction of a house to the ‘Lai Haraoba’ festival, Manipur has unique characters in all its culture and tradition, that are not found in any other part of the world. Manipur has a rich cultural legacy, including world-famous dance, handloom, and handicraft, which made our ancestors hold their heads high.
Unfortunately, he observed all these beautiful cultures and their characteristics slowly disappear.
Manipur, on the other hand, is now heading in an irreversible direction. Almost eighty percent of the present generation is hooked on mobile phones. There is no discipline, no more love between a father and a son, no harmony among localities, and no consonance among different communities, Meghen lamented.
In this uncertain period, the role of writers is of utmost importance. “Be it drama or Sumang Leela, our writers should now devote time to facing these challenges and protecting our lost cultures,” he added.
The event was attended by W Amuchou Meitei, President Malemgi Lup; Rajendra Okram, Writer; Buddha Chingtham, Playwright, Critic, Chairman, Cultural Workers and Activities Forum, Manipur; Khaidem Thoiba, President Amik; Khaidem Londonbala, Advocate; and Columnist Sangai Express Manipur.
