Unforgettable Encounter: When an Author Meets a Soldier in Manipur – A Heartfelt Tale from Northeast News

Renowned author Vikram Seth, known for his preference for discretion, recently stayed with my family in the suburbs of Imphal during his visit to Manipur. Despite his incognito approach, Seth’s keen observational skills impressed me as he adeptly absorbed his surroundings. Remarkably, he picked up some Manipuri language from signboards while exploring Kangla, the historical heart of Imphal. Seth exhibited a profound interest in the architectural and historical significance of Manipur’s relics, even lying flat on his back to photograph unique carvings. Our conversations delved into Manipur’s rich history, including its defeats by Burmese and British forces, and the current socio-political issues plaguing the region.

Seth’s 15-day travel across the Northeast, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Mizoram, and Tripura, prior to arriving in Manipur, enriched his understanding of the region’s complexities. He discussed the protracted unrest affecting Manipur and its implications on neighbouring states and Myanmar, showing a surprising depth of insight. In a session with budding writers in Imphal, Seth tactfully avoided politically sensitive remarks but expressed his curiosity about infrastructural challenges, particularly the poor road conditions experienced during his travels.

We shared concerns over discrepancies between budget allocations for state road projects and the stark reality on the ground. Our discussions pointed towards systemic failures in delivering services effectively, with greed for power and money likely culprits. We agreed that fostering trust and dialogue among communities is crucial, advocating for a “give and take” approach while dismissing unjust demands.

Before departing on November 15, Seth gifted me a signed copy of his book “From Heaven Lake,” and graciously accepted mine. His reflections on reaching Shillong emphasized the dire need for rational decision-makers to alleviate the plight of those affected by instability.

Original Story https://nenews.in/opinion/an-author-and-a-soldier-meet-in-manipur/15832/
Category : Opinion,Author Vikram Seth,Manipur
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Publish Date: 2024-11-22 10:44:00