The International Observation Committee on Puya Mei Thaba (ICOP) on Tuesday observed the 289th Puya Meithaba day at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound here.
The ancient sacred scriptures, Puyas of Manipur were burnt on this day, the 23rd day Manipuri lunar calendar of Wakching, during the reign of king Pamheiba (1709-1748) on the advice of Shantidas Gosai, a preacher from Sylhet, now in Bangladesh. Scholars claim that Puya Meithaba took place in the year 1783 due to influence of the Bengali scholar Shantidas Gosai. After conversion to Hinduism, Pamheiba made it the official religion of Manipur in 1717 and took the name Gharib Niwaz.
This year the Chingmi Tammi Nungshi Lipun award was given to Tangkhul veteran singer, Reuben Mashangva and Maichou Ningshing award to ICOP advisor, Ibechoubi Leima. The award consists of Rs10,000 cash and a certificate each.
Delivering the keynote address on the occasion, ICOP vice chairman Moirangthem Nongdrenkhomba Meetei stressed on bringing forward the age-old love and unity of the hills and valley without prejudice against any of the community.
The event was held under the theme “Remember, review and revive love, peace and integrity.” The day was observed as “black day” for three days at Special Regular English School, Nambol.
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