The 91st Birth Anniversary of eminent Manipuri litterateur and songwriter B. Jayantakumar Sharma was observed on 14 January at the Auditorium of Manipur Hindi Parishad, Old Assembly Road.
The function was graced by Chongtham Kamala Devi, President, Pahari Memorial Trust, as the Chief Guest. Dilip Mayengbam, President, ASEILUP, Manipur, attended as President, while Nongmaithem Kirankumar, Former Convener, Manipuri Language Advisory Board, Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, attended as the Guest of Honour.
The programme began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and floral tribute to the portrait of B. Jayantakumar Sharma, followed by an opening song and welcome address. In their speeches, the dignitaries paid rich tribute to the literary and cultural contributions of Jayantakumar Sharma, who was a distinguished author of Manipuri literature and a celebrated lyricist.
The speakers particularly highlighted his lasting legacy as the lyricist of “Sana Leibak Manipur,” the State Song of Manipur, which continues to inspire a deep sense of pride, unity, and cultural identity among the people of the state. His role in enriching Manipuri language, literature, and music was fondly remembered.
The Chief Guest appreciated the efforts of the organizers in preserving the literary heritage of Manipur, while the Guest of Honour highlighted the importance of remembering literary stalwarts who shaped the cultural consciousness of the state.