The 24th death anniversary of renowned playwright and public leader Arambam Samarenda was observed by members of the Patriotic Writers Forum (PAWF), Manipur at Nungshikol park under Lamlai assembly constituency in Imphal East with the participation of Meities from Bangladesh.
Noted writer Chana Lukhoi as chief guest said, “Tamohal Arambam Samarendra was a visionary writer who loved his motherland. Armed miscreants assassinated him while he was giving a speech at an event related to social issues in the state, and this was a huge loss for the state. Those who had killed him must be going through regret today after realising who he really was.”
He further thanked the PAWF, Manipur for commemorating the writer. The event was attended by vice president of the Forum P Biprachand as president, patron member, HOD of Biramangol College, Sawombung Laishram Landhoni as guest of honour.
After offering floral tributes to Arambam Samarendra at Nungshikol park, assistant secretary of the Forum Laimujam Pratap gave the welcome speech while its secretary Rakesh Naorem gave the keynote address.
Film Maker OC Meira, noted writers Kshetrimayum Subadani, Chana Lembi and Thangjam Ibemu gave speeches on the theme, ‘Arambam Samarendra’s role in the building of Manipuri Nationalism.”
Distributing aid to families displaced by the unrest in Manipur and traditional clothes as gifts to the members of the Manipuri diaspora from Bangladesh, namely Rajib Konthoujam, Dijen Ngangbam and Apu Ngangbam marked the occasion.
Forum secretary Rakesh Naorem said that Arambam Samarendra was one of the leaders who gave impetus to Manipuri nationalism after Hijam Irawat. He was killed at a public event on June 10, 2000, he said.
The function is being held to remind the youths of the sacrifices made by Arambam Samarendra while recalling his untimely death. Besides writing numerous Shumang leelas, plays, he was the story writer of the first Manipur film, ‘Matamgi Manipur’ which was screened on April 9, 1972.
He further said, Arambam Samarendra was conferred with the prestigious Sahitya Akademi award in 1995 for his drama, ‘Leipaklei’.
“Born on July 12, 1935, Arambam Samarendra was a renowned playwright and Sumang leela director. He was a social reformer and a leading figure in upholding Manipuri Nationalism,” he added.
He further stressed that Meeties need to become united and work towards a common goal to defeat the Chin-Kuki Narco terrorists who are attempting to destroy the territorial integrity of Manipur. He appealed to bring a resolution to the protracted issue by both the Central and state government and assist the ones staying at relief camps. He also extended solidarity to the residents of Jiribam who are affected by the violence.
