The Legacy of Lamyanba Irawat: Honoring a Hero in Nandapur, Assam
Summary:
A statue of Lamyanba Hijam Irawat was unveiled in Nandapur, Hojai, Assam, on December 10, 2024. The statue, erected by the Patriotic Writers Forum (PAWF) Manipur and the Manipuri Women Literary and Cultural Organisation (MWLCO), commemorates Irawat’s significant contributions. This marks the third statue of Irawat in Assam, with previous installations in Tripura and Lakhipur. Key figures from PAWF and MWLCO attended the event to honor Irawat’s legacy, emphasizing his enduring influence on society.
Full Article:
In an age where history and heroes often fade into the background, it’s heartening to witness moments that bring the past to the forefront. On December 10, 2024, in Nandapur, Hojai, Assam, a statue of Lamyanba Hijam Irawat was unveiled to celebrate his immense contribution to society. This event wasn’t just a ceremonial occasion; it was a moment to reflect on the legacy of a man whose name resonates deeply within the Manipuri community and beyond. This article dives into the significance of the statue, the ceremony, and the larger-than-life figure of Lamyanba Irawat himself.
Who Was Lamyanba Hijam Irawat?
Before we discuss the unveiling of the statue, it’s essential to understand who Lamyanba Irawat was. Irawat, often revered as a revolutionary leader, was known for his tireless efforts to fight for the rights of the people, particularly those in the Northeast of India. He was a social activist, a leader who believed in equality, justice, and the power of education. His contributions to social reform and his role in the freedom movement have made him a symbol of resistance and resilience. For many, Irawat isn’t just a historical figure; he is a living inspiration, a reminder that one person’s efforts can ripple through society, bringing about change for generations.
The Unveiling: A Grand Event
The unveiling ceremony, held in Nandapur, Assam, was a testament to the collective efforts of the Manipuri diaspora, with key players such as the Patriotic Writers Forum (PAWF) Manipur and the Manipuri Women Literary and Cultural Organisation (MWLCO). These organizations, with the support of local leaders and activists, managed to erect the statue as a lasting tribute to Irawat’s impact. This was the third statue of Irawat installed by PAWF in Assam, with earlier statues having been unveiled in Tripura and Lakhipur.
A Monument to Remember
The statue, which stands tall in Nandapur, is more than just a piece of art—it represents the unbreakable spirit of a community determined to honor its roots and history. The installation of the statue was made possible through the generosity of the land donated by Thangjam Irabot of Nandapur. This act reflects the deep sense of unity and respect for Irawat’s legacy within the region. PAWF and MWLCO’s joint effort demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that the memory of Irawat lives on, not just through stories and books but also through tangible monuments like these.
The Ceremony: A Gathering of Minds
The unveiling was attended by several key figures, each of whom brought their own personal perspective on the significance of Irawat’s contributions. Dr. Yaiskul Khwairakpam, the former president of PAWF, served as the chief guest of the ceremony. Alongside him were prominent leaders such as PAWF President Nairoibam Khamba Luwang, MWLCO Founder President Renuka Yumnam, and social activist Dr. Yengkhom Bhagyachandra.
In his speech, Dr. Khwairakpam highlighted the enduring importance of Irawat’s work and how his ideals continue to inspire movements for justice and equality. The event also featured speeches from OC Meira, retired teacher Huirongbam Binodibihari, and MWLCO Secretary Asem Subhashini, each of whom emphasized the importance of preserving Irawat’s memory for future generations.
A Lasting Legacy: Why Irawat’s Statue Matters
So, why does the statue of Lamyanba Irawat matter today? In a world where monuments are often torn down or forgotten, the installation of a statue for Irawat is a powerful statement. It’s a reminder of the struggles that led to the rights and freedoms we often take for granted. The statue isn’t just a memorial; it’s a call to action, urging us to reflect on our own role in continuing Irawat’s work. For the people of Nandapur and Assam, it serves as a beacon of pride, a landmark that tells a story of resilience and resistance.
The Role of PAWF and MWLCO
The Patriotic Writers Forum (PAWF) and Manipuri Women Literary and Cultural Organisation (MWLCO) have played pivotal roles in ensuring that Lamyanba Irawat’s legacy is preserved and celebrated. These organizations are at the forefront of promoting the cultural and literary heritage of the Manipuri community, and their efforts in installing statues of Irawat across different states in India signify their commitment to honoring local heroes.
Their collaborative efforts reflect a shared sense of purpose and the belief that history should be preserved—not just for nostalgia’s sake, but for the education and empowerment of future generations. With the installation of statues in Assam, Tripura, and Lakhipur, PAWF and MWLCO have ensured that Irawat’s legacy isn’t confined to the pages of history books but is part of the living, breathing fabric of the community.
A Moment to Reflect
The unveiling of Lamyanba Irawat’s statue isn’t just about the physical monument; it’s about the values and ideas he championed. It’s about the way communities come together to honor their past, and how that past shapes their future. As the statue stands in Nandapur, it serves as a constant reminder of what can be achieved when individuals stand up for what they believe in.
The legacy of Lamyanba Irawat, with its roots in social justice, empowerment, and unity, is something that transcends time and space. The statue isn’t just a symbol of the past, but a living tribute to the ongoing fight for justice and equality in the world today.
FAQs
- Who was Lamyanba Hijam Irawat?
- Lamyanba Hijam Irawat was a revolutionary leader and social activist from Manipur who worked tirelessly for social justice, equality, and the rights of the marginalized communities.
- Where was Lamyanba Irawat’s statue unveiled?
- A statue of Lamyanba Irawat was unveiled in Nandapur, Hojai, Assam, on December 10, 2024.
- What organizations were behind the statue installation?
- The statue was installed by the Patriotic Writers Forum (PAWF), Manipur, and the Manipuri Women Literary and Cultural Organisation (MWLCO).
- Why is Lamyanba Irawat’s statue important?
- The statue honors Irawat’s legacy of fighting for social change and equality, ensuring that his contributions are remembered and celebrated by future generations.
- How many statues of Lamyanba Irawat are there in Assam?
- This is the third statue of Lamyanba Irawat installed by PAWF in Assam, with previous installations in Tripura and Lakhipur.
