Imphal: Governor Najma Heptulla on Saturday said that literature has a major social responsibility and can have an inspirational influence when it explores issues which are of great importance.
She further said, “It makes us conscious and aware of the plight of the people. Our aim is to build a strong nation and an enlightened society where all the people may enjoy their rights and live peacefully.” “Writers can address social issues by creating awareness amongst the people through their writings. Languages may vary but the process of creativity is one and universal,” she added.
She was speaking during the release of the novel ‘Peeshumlei’ authored by Prof. (L) N Tombi Singh at Raj Bhavan on Saturday.
She said Prof. (L) N Tombi Singh was an educationist, seasoned politician, writer, journalist and a cultural activist.
In recognition of his valuable contribution in the field of literature of the State, he was posthumously awarded Gang Sharan Award and Sahitya Bhushan by Manipuri Sahitya Parishad in 2002.
The book is the author’s first novel written in Manipuri describing the state of affairs in Manipur during the reign of Bhagyachandra Maharaj and several kings before him in the 18th century she added.
The book will certainly be a very popular novel and a socio-political narrative of immense historical and cultural value she added.
She said Prof. Tombi Singh had carved out a distinct identity for himself in public life and also in the literary sphere as a prolific writer.
Many of his students, when he was a lecturer at the Imphal College and who have survived, still remember fondly his contribution as a writer and a social reformist.
He experimented with many forms of writing novels, poems, essays and plays.
In his personal life, however, he struggled constantly against odds and overcame them to achieve success through perseverance and hard work.
In a public life that spanned over more than five decades, Prof. Tombi Singh held several important posts in his political career – as Member of Legislative Assembly, Minister and Member of Parliament.
Presenting a preview of the novel, former President of Manipur Sahitya Parishad and Eminent Scholar, Nongmaithem Tombi Singh said that the novel ‘Peeshumlei’ is a historical fiction set against the background of King Bhagyachandra, who was a lover of art and culture. (PTI)
