International Translation Day celebrated

The Sahitya Thoupang Lup and Laishram Samarendra Birth Centenary Celebration Committee organized a special event today to mark International Translation Day at the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) Auditorium, Keishampat. The gathering highlighted the growing importance of translation in multicultural societies and celebrated outstanding contributions in the field.
A key feature of the programme was the presentation of the Nongthombam Kunjamohan Translation Award to Salam Tomba, an eminent translator recognized for his significant role in promoting cross-cultural understanding. The event was introduced by N. Rabichandra, setting the stage for an engaging and insightful programme.
The function was graced by Chief Guest Ngangom Uttam Singh, MCS, Director of Information and Public Relations, Government of Manipur, and presided over by Prof. Thounaojam Ratankumar, former Head of the Department of English, Manipur University. Both emphasized the critical role of translation in global communication and the preservation of local literary traditions.
The programme also featured the release of Laishram Samarendra’s English translation, Wa Amatta Haige Telanga, with a scholarly talk by Chanambam Sharmila of Manipur University. A multilingual poets’ meet and reading session chaired by Sahitya Akademi Award-winner Haobam Satyabati showcased the richness of Manipuri literary voices.
The celebration underscored translation’s role in bridging linguistic divides, fostering appreciation of Manipur’s literary heritage, and promoting cultural unity.