Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 23 2008:
To understand the reflections of feminism in literary writings and how far the movement has been able to influence the Manipuri writers, a symposium on the topic of 'Feminism in Manipur literature' was organised under the joint aegis of Sahitya Akademi and Leimarol Khorjei at Kangla Hall here today.
The symposium was inaugurated by noted writer and Sahitya Akademi awardee Nongthombam Kunjamohan Singh as chief guest and Chairperson of Manipur State Commission for Women Dr Ch Jamini Devi as president.
In his address, Kunjamohan pointed out that even if man and woman are said to be equal in the eyes of the law, yet women are being discriminated against in the family and society.
Women are also still far from enjoying the rights entitled to them.
Stating that there is the need to spread awareness among the people so as to ensure that the men and women are treated equally, Kunjamohan observed that literature could play an important role in spreading this awareness.
In her presidential address, Dr Jamini noted that women in Manipuri society are yet to find their rightful place in corresponding to their contribution in the society.
Women are still being subjected to various forms of violence.
So production of creative writings based on the numerous cases being received by the Manipur State Commission for Women may be useful, she suggested.
In the morning session of the symposium conducted with L Joychandra Singh as moderator, Arambam Ongbi Memchoubi spoke on 'feminism in early writing', Th Ratankumar Singh on 'feminism in the plays of GC Tongbra', Aruna Devi on 'feminism in the plays of Arambam Samarendra' and M Priyobrata Singh on the topic of 'feminism in Manipuri novels'.
In the afternoon session moderated by Prof N Tombi Singh, K Shantibala spoke on the topic of 'feminism in the 20th century Manipuri short stories', Kshetri Prem on 'feminism in 21st century Manipuri short stories', Ibosana Yambem on ' feminism in 20th century Manipuri poetry' and RJ Meetei on ' feminism on 21st century Manipuri poetry'.