IMPHAL, October 27: The Meitei Huyen Langlon Sintam Sanglen (Satjal Academy) Awang Sekmai-Maharabi branch observed its 4th Raising Day Celebration at Parao Khomba Development Association Community Hall, Sekmai today.
Speaking at the function, commander UFO HQ, H Naokhomba said there were 36 different communities in Manipur and each community has their own culture and religion.
However, rich cultures, traditions, religions and other unique records of the people were destroyed with the burning all the Puyas (written records) due to conversion of Hindu followed by the invasion of the British empire.
He further said that when British invaded Manipur, there was no religion, no script and no hopes for Meiteis.
The decline of women moral value presently in State is the impact of burning puyas, he added.
He exhorted that in order to regain our culture back, there are four basic four things that the people need to do which included practising our ancient religion; maintain discipline; good judgement and maintaining strict diets, he added.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, MLA Sekmai, Kh Devendro Singh said that Satjal Academy is an institute where one could learn about the true culture of Meiteis before the arrival of Hindu culture besides various ancient arts such as Huyel Langlon Thang-Ta.
The MLA further promised to set up a Shanglen of UFO Awang Sekmai Branch within two years.
Around 300 members wearing black uniform gave general salute to the `Pakhangba`™ flag the symbol of the Satjal besides Maibam Shyamchandra and his team consisting of seven members including four females performed both opening `Kumja Kayagi Tungda` and closing `Eikhoi Punsinnarase` songs, marking the day.
The function was attended by Yaiskul Khwairakpam, retired teacher cum writer; Robin Khwairakpam, social worker and Imasi RK Pishak as president and guests of honour respectively.
Around 900 individuals were also attended the function.