Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 13 2008:
Images of 19th century Manipur were studied during a programme organised by the Art and Culture Department at its artistes' dormitory at Palace Compound today.
The programme christened, "An Analysis on Images from 19th Century Manipur, collected from United Kingdom" was graced by MP Dr T Meinya as chief guest, Art and Culture Commissioner P Bharat as president, Secretary to Governor RK Nimai, noted scholar N Khelchandra and social worker RK Ranendrajit as guests of honour.
The images of 19th century Manipur were collected by Elangbam Bishwajit, a native of Manipur who has now become British citizen, from different places including British Library and archives during the last four years.
The images were analysed and displayed to the public today.
The images collected from the United Kingdom include those of Bir Tikendrajit, Thangal General, Sagol Kangjei, Mukna Kangjei, Kang, Lai Haraoba, Hiyang Tannaba, structure of Kangla royal palace, durbar, clothes and ornaments of royal ladies etc.
Images of different tribes of Manipur are also among the pictures collected from the UK.
The images were displayed today after Art and Culture Director Kh Sorojini and Naoroibam Kapu went to UK and came back with Dr E Bishwajit along with the images.
Speaking at the occasion, Dr T Meinya asserted that it is crucial to preserve the cherished values of the ancestors for proper identification of the Manipuri nation.
Hailing Bishwajit and Kapu, P Bharat said that the images collected from the UK would be of enormous help in the ongoing effort to develop Kangla.
Dr E Bishwajit said that copyright of the images lie with the British Government.
He further noted that it was a good fortune for Manipur that the British Government preserved these images taken in 19th century till this day.