Dr. Yumnam Nouba Meetei is a distinguished figure in the realm of cultural preservation, widely celebrated for his unwavering commitment to safeguarding Manipur’s oral folk traditions and spoken literature. Through years of dedicated research and community engagement, he has brought renewed attention to the richness of Meitei oral traditions. His pioneering work has earned him prestigious honors, including the Best Community Linguist Award 2025 and an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Oral Spoken Literature from the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Preserving Yelhou Mayek Scripts

A cornerstone of Dr. Meetei’s mission has been the restoration and revival of the ancient Yelhou Mayek scripts, which are deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural fabric of Manipur. Believed to have been discovered by Laininghal Naoriya Phullo, these scripts represent a vital link to the region’s ancestral knowledge. Dr. Meetei’s meticulous research and educational outreach have played a crucial role in reintroducing these scripts to modern learners and communities, ensuring that this indigenous writing system is not lost to history.

Promoting Oral Spoken Literature

In addition to his work with scripts, Dr. Meetei has also dedicated himself to preserving the rich tradition of Meetei oral literature. This includes a vast repertoire of folk songs, myths, and storytelling practices that have been passed down through generations. Recognizing the cultural depth embedded in these narratives, he has worked tirelessly to document, teach, and promote oral storytelling as a living tradition. His efforts have not only safeguarded these treasures but also elevated their status within academic and cultural circles.

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Awards and Recognition

Dr. Meetei’s outstanding contributions have garnered recognition both within Manipur and internationally. He was honored with the Best Community Linguist Award 2025, jointly awarded by the Directorate of Regional Indian Languages and Research and the Manipur State Commission for Scheduled Tribe. This was followed by the Prof. Dr. R. Subbakrishna Memorial Community Linguist Award 2025, which further affirmed his deep commitment to linguistic preservation. Perhaps most notably, he received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Oral Spoken Literature from the University of Colombo in 2025, a reflection of his academic excellence and grassroots impact.

Meitei Language and Culture

At the heart of Dr. Meetei’s work lies a passion for the Meitei language and the cultural values it embodies. He views language as a vessel of identity, memory, and resistance, especially in the context of globalization and cultural homogenization. By reviving linguistic traditions and promoting the cultural practices of the Meitei people, he has played an essential role in reinforcing a sense of pride and continuity within the community. His work serves as a reminder of the power of cultural heritage in shaping collective identity.

Conclusion

Dr. Yumnam Nouba Meetei’s lifelong dedication to the preservation and promotion of Manipur’s cultural heritage stands as an inspiration to scholars, cultural workers, and future generations alike. Through his tireless advocacy for oral literature and indigenous scripts, he has ensured that the voices of the past continue to resonate in the present. His legacy is not only one of preservation but also of revitalization, breathing new life into the stories and languages that define a people.