North American Manipur Association (NAMA) Hosts its 35th Annual Convention in New Jersey.
Over the July 4th US Independence Day weekend, the North American Manipur Association (NAMA) held its 35th Annual Convention in New Jersey, bringing together Manipuri families from across the United States, along with guests from India, for another meaningful celebration of the Manipuri diaspora’s culture, tradition, and community. The turnout made this year’s gathering one of the most well-attended NAMA conventions in recent years.
Celebrations kicked off on the evening of July 3rd with a fun-filled pre-convention meet and greet. Families exchanged greetings and introductions over a spread of traditional Manipuri dishes prepared by New Jersey host families, while a lively game of housie added to the festive mood.
The main convention day on July 4th commenced with the singing of the national anthems of the United States and India, performed by Langlen Heisnam. This was followed by a rendition of the opening song, Anouba Jukki Anouba Asha performed by the New Jersey host families, setting a warm and welcoming tone for the event. A welcome address was then delivered by Sushil and Renu Laishram, extending a gracious welcome to attendees who had travelled from near and far to join the gathering.
NAMA is grateful to the honorable Chief Minister of Manipur, Shri. Yumnam Khemchand Singh, who sent his warm greetings for the occasion. NAMA appreciates his recognition of the diaspora’s role in preserving Manipuri heritage and fostering ties with the homeland, along with his confidence in the convention and best wishes for its success.
Dr. Choudhurimayum Nabakanta Sharma and Smt. Sobita Laishram graced the occasion as Chief Guest and Guest of Honor respectively, joined by Chair of the NAMA Board of Trustees, Dr. Lalit Pukhrambam. Together, they offered words of encouragement and guidance to those gathered.
NAMA President Dr. Thoihen Heisnam presented a brief history of the Association, reflecting on its journey and achievements in the current term. Notable achievements included securing of 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, revamping of the NAMA website, and launching of the NAMA Research Grant. Treasurer Priyananda Soubam followed with the Association’s Treasury Report, presenting an update on NAMA’s financial standing.
The program also featured the distribution of prizes to the winners of the painting and essay-writing competitions, recognizing and celebrating the community’s young talents.
In the afternoon session, the event unfolded into a vibrant cultural program featuring various traditional and contemporary dance and song performances, a graceful rendition of Mou Jagoi, and wrapping up with the traditional Thabal Chongba, sending attendees home with full hearts and lasting memories.
As the day’s proceedings drew to a close, Dr. Raju Huidrom, NAMA’s General Secretary, offered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing profound gratitude to all attendees for contributing to the event’s success, with special acknowledgment for the New Jersey host families’ exceptional generosity, hospitality, and tireless behind-the-scenes efforts.
The convention also saw the election of NAMA’s new executive committee, marking the start of a fresh term of leadership for the association. Notably, the new committee included, for the first time, young second-generation Manipuris stepping into executive roles—a significant milestone in NAMA’s generational transition. The outgoing executive team members were thanked for their term of dedicated service and steady stewardship.
Carrying forward the spirit of the previous year’s gathering in Boston, the 35th NAMA Convention once again reaffirmed the shared identity of the Manipuri diaspora and NAMA’s ongoing mission to preserve and promote its social, cultural, and educational heritage across North America. As the curtain fell on another memorable weekend, NAMA extended its heartfelt thanks to the New Jersey host families for their warmth and tireless efforts in making the convention a great success. NAMA now looks ahead with excitement to its 36th Annual Convention in 2027, eager to welcome back familiar friends and many new faces alike!