A delegation from the Patriotic Writers Forum (PAWF), Manipur, is set to participate in the Ima Makong Leima Lai Haraoba festival, taking place at the Manipuri Cultural Complex in Tetaigoan, Adampur Bazar, Bangladesh, from April 8 to 10. This festival is organized through a collaboration involving the Manipuri Cultural Complex, the Bangladesh National Museum, and the Bangladesh Poirei Apokpa Marup Dharmeo Sanskritik Sangstha, with endorsement from UNESCO.
Members of PAWF’s Tripura Branch representing the forum include President Gurumayum Biplab Sharma, Advisory Board Member Kshetrimayum Madhabi Singha, and Ningombam Pranay, who have already embarked on their journey to join the festival. According to PAWF Manipur Secretary Rakesh Naorem, the delegation will engage in various cultural and academic activities during their stay. Notably, they will attend an International Seminar on Manipuri Language, Literature & Culture on April 7, which is jointly hosted by the Manipuri Library & Research Centre, Bangladesh, and PAWF Manipur. Furthermore, on April 10, the team will take part in the 16th Manipuri Language Festival organized by the Bangladesh Manipuri Sahitya Sangsad (BAMSAS).
In a show of support for the festival’s success, the PAWF has provided financial assistance to the Lai Haraoba Committee. The delegation also includes Secretary Rakesh Naorem, Executive Member Nabakumar Oina, Life Member Yengkhom Bhagyachandra, and renowned Manipuri folk singer Benita Laishram. Their involvement underscores a commitment to promoting and preserving the Manipuri language, literature, and cultural heritage beyond the confines of Manipur.
Founded around 2008, the PAWF is a key literary organization dedicated to championing patriotic literature, safeguarding Manipuri culture, and encouraging unity among Manipuri communities, including those in Assam, Tripura, and Bangladesh. Based in Imphal, the forum is known for organizing national poets’ meets, commemorating significant literary figures, and awarding distinguished writers, thereby fostering a rich cultural legacy.
