35th Manipuri Language Day Celebrated in Imphal for Unity

Imphal, August 20, 2026 (DIPR): The 35th Manipuri Language Day was celebrated today at the J.N. Manipur Dance Academy Auditorium, Imphal, under the theme “State Song ‘Sana Leibak Manipur’ for Peace, Unity & Integrity.”

The State-level celebration was organised by the Manipuri Language Day State Level Celebration Committee in collaboration with the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA), Imphal, a constituent unit of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi.

Hon’ble Minister for Home and Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of Manipur, Shri Govindas Konthoujam, attended the celebration as the Chief Guest. Hon’ble MLAs Shri Sorokhaibam Rajen Singh and Shri Karam Shyam attended as Guests of Honour, while Shri Aribam Shyam Sharma, composer of the State Song “Sana Leibak Manipur,” attended as the Special Guest. Dr. Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, former Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Education, Government of India, presided over the function.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Govindas Konthoujam said that language is our identity and pride, adding that language is not merely a means of communication but an important expression of the identity, culture, history and civilisation of a people.

He emphasised the need to preserve, promote and develop the indigenous languages of Manipur and said that the linguistic diversity of the State is a valuable cultural heritage. He called for collective efforts to safeguard and promote the State’s linguistic heritage for future generations.

The Minister further stressed the importance of strengthening academic and cultural initiatives relating to language by involving scholars, academicians, cultural organisations and concerned communities. He also highlighted the need for appropriate government policies and programmes to support the preservation and development of languages and cultural traditions.

Emphasising that language carries the history, knowledge, traditions and collective memory of a community, the Minister urged all stakeholders to work together towards protecting and promoting the linguistic heritage of Manipur.

Shri Govindas further stated that the Government will make efforts to get Manipuri language recognised as a Classical Language before the occasion of next year’s Manipuri Language Day. The public is also urged to extend their support and cooperation towards this endeavour.

The programme featured a patriotic song presented by AMMIK, followed by a keynote address by Shri Leihaothabam Sharatchandra, Convenor, Celebration Committee.

Shri Pukhrambam Bilash Singh, Director (in-charge), JNMDA, delivered a short speech on “Role of J.N. Manipur Dance Academy in Promoting Manipuri Language and Culture.” Shri Heikrujam Devendra Singh, Programme Executive, AIR Imphal, delivered a short speech on “Role of Akashvani Imphal in Promoting Manipuri Language and Culture.”

A special address was also delivered by Shri Aribam Shyam Sharma, composer of the State Song “Sana Leibak Manipur.”

The event was attended by a large number of invitees, and other dignitaries.