Noted Manipuri writer E Sonamani Singh passes away

IMPHAL: Sahitya Akademi awardee noted Manipuri author Elangbam Sonamani Singh passed away due to age related ailments here today.

 

Sonamani Singh began writing at a young age, while he was in school. Wakhal Sheireng, a collection of sonnets, was his first publication in 1949.

 

His other works of poetry include Sangbannabi (1962), Thamoi bina (1963), Barugi Wareng Sheireng (1963), Lounam Chaobi Leirang (1963), Ani Thoklabada (1980).

 

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He was actively involved in various literary, cultural, educational and social institutions.

 

He was honoured with many awards such as Manipur State Kala Akademi (1987), Sahitya Akademi Award for Literature, New Delhi (1988), Chongtham Bimola Basanta Award (2008), Fellow Manipur State Kala Akademi (2009), Srimad Paramhansa Swami Jogendrananda Giri Memorial Award (2009), Salam Ibomcha Lakshmi Literary Award (2010) Manipuri Sahitya Bishenpur, Sahitya Ratna Manipuri Sahitya Parishad Assam (2010), Writer of the Year (Manipur Sahitya Premi), Thoibi Award (2011) Cultural Forum, Translation Award Sahitya Akademi Delhi (2012).

 

Basumati (1984), Hajari (1998) and Sengoisana (2010) are some of his novels are well known in Manipuri literature.

 

Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh condoled his demise and said Sonamani Singh's contribution to Manipuri literature will always be important assets for society.

 

“Deeply saddened by the demise of a great author and a pioneer of Manipuri literature, Oja Elangbam Sonamani. His valuable contribution to Manipuri literature will remain a valuable asset for our society. My heart goes out to the grieving family. May his soul rest in peace,” Biren Singh tweeted.