Rabi Takhellambam
Thoubal, Sept.28: Temple of the Indigenous deity (Malam Ema Nungthong Sidabi) located at Serou in Sugnu Assembly Constituency of Kakching district has been severely devastated during the recent flood. The temple is an important place for Meitei indigenous religion believers and every full moon day of Meitei lunar month Wakching 1000s came for blessing of the Meitei deity.
Talking to Imphal Times Mr. Donbabu, a localite who has been looking after for the welfare of the temple elaborated on the significance of deity. The temple is believed to be doorway between the Gods and Human, he said.
The recent flood has cause severe devastation in and around the temple. Many worthless manuscript kept in the temple has also been destroyed. The full moon day Meitei Lunar Month Wakching falls on January 2, 2918. Donbabu said that may pilgrims from across the state will come to the temple for offering prayer to the deity as usual. He said if the temple could not renovate before that specific day many will be disappointed.
He requested the concern government authority to extend some help in the interest of the Meitei indigenous religion believers.
The temple is being looked after by a religious body called Poirei Apokpa Marup, however, as the body is now bankrupt, they are not in the position to renovate the temple.
The temple is about 6 km from the main Serou Market. The visit of pilgrims also enhanced economic condition of the people inhabiting in and around temple site.