Dialogues in Sound and Memory: Firefly Archivists & History Club Hosts Inspiring Event at D.M. College of Arts

The Firefly Archivists & History Club, in collaboration with D.M. College of Arts, Imphal, organised a memorable event titled “Dialogues in Sound and Memory” on Thursday at the college auditorium as part of its ongoing series “Creative Histories: Remembering Legends.” The programme brought together scholars, musicians, and cultural voices to reflect on the intersection of memory, sound, and history.

The event was graced by Shri Dinganglung Gangmei, Hon’ble Chairman of the Hill Areas Committee and MLA of 54-Nungba (ST), as Chief Guest; Dr. Homen Thangjam, Associate Professor, IGNTU Manipur, as Guest of Honour; and Samuel Duidang, Head of the History Department, D.M. College of Arts, as President.

In her welcome note, Bhanisana Irom, Convenor of the History Club, set the tone for the gathering, followed by a keynote address delivered by Dr. Syed Ahmed, Teacher-in-charge of the History Club and a member of The Firefly Archivists.

The day featured engaging lectures and performances. Dhiren A. Sadokpam spoke on “Sonic Resistance: Metal Bands in the Crucible of Globalised Anxiety”; Mangka Mayanglambam, the princess of Manipuri folk music, delivered a talk on “Folk Music Amadi Magi Wakhallon” and performed folk songs with her students; while Akhu (Ronid Chingangbam), poet and frontman of The Imphal Talkies and The Howlers, reflected on music’s role in politics and peace, later performing his song Qutub Minar.

A highlight of the event was the felicitation of two musical legends — Momo Laishram, percussionist and former member of Cannibals, and Guru Jiangam Kamei, acclaimed singer, guitarist, lyricist, and composer. Both were honoured with a shawl, citation, and a cash award of ₹10,000 each. Their legacies were further celebrated through personal tributes, including reflections from Ganthuillong Kamei, son of Guru Jiangam Kamei.

The programme concluded with reflections from the Guest of Honour and Chief Guest, followed by a Presidential Address from Samuel Duidang. Lanleima Leishangthem, Finance i/c of the History Club, delivered the vote of thanks.

With music, memory, and history interwoven, the event left a lasting impact on attendees, highlighting the importance of creative storytelling in preserving cultural legacies.