The Art of Living Manipur honoured a group of individuals for their outstanding contributions to society with the “Unsung Everyday Heroes Awards” during a ceremony held at the auditorium of Kamakhya Pemton College today.
The awards, instituted as part of the global celebrations marking 45 years of The Art of Living and the 70th birth year of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, recognise individuals who have made significant contributions in the fields of youth leadership, sports, entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
Lieutenant General (Dr.) Konsam Himalay Singh attended the event as Chief Guest. Guests of Honour included Bishnupur Deputy Commissioner Pooja Elangbam, Padma Shri and Arjuna Awardee N. Kunjarani Devi, Padma Shri awardee and Additional Director of Education (S) Gunamayum Anita Devi, and Kamakhya Pemton College Principal Dr. Wahengbam Nimai Singh.
A special recognition was presented to Tampakmayum Asatullah, popularly known as “Eshing Maiba,” for his humanitarian service in recovering bodies of drowning victims over the years.
Among the awardees in the sports category were Indian women’s football team captain Ngangbam Sweety Devi, national goalkeeper Elangbam Panthoi Chanu, sport climbing pioneer Pheiroijam Shanti Rani Devi, cyclist Khundrakpam Ronel Singh and women’s Sagol Kangjei enthusiast Ngounu Ahanthem.
Awards were also presented to Potshangbam Rita Devi, Annie Mangsatabam, Khangembam Ranjita Devi and Cecilia Zimik for their contributions in philanthropy, entrepreneurship and youth leadership.
Several individuals and organisations, including Naorem Niroda Devi, Laishangbam Bimol Singh, Chingangbam Asharani Devi, Hanjabam Ranita Devi, Dr. Thingujam Sweta Devi, Mumu Foods and Elangbam Seityabati Devi, received citations of appreciation for their contributions to social welfare, wellness, entrepreneurship and indigenous food promotion.
Speakers at the event lauded the awardees for their dedication and called for greater public participation in community service and nation-building initiatives.