And That is Why :: Global #e-leikai Book Reading Event
London, 29 June 2021

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Global #e-leikai Book Reading Event for 'And That Is Why: Manipuri Myths Retold' on 29 June 2021

The European Manipuri Association (EMA) hosted a conversation between EMA's Rajya Downes, host, and L. Somi Roy, author of "And That Is Why: Manipuri Myths Retold". The virtual event was co-presented by the book's publisher Penguin Random House India, and Imasi Foundation of Manipur.

Roy talked about the writing of the book and artist Sapha Yumnam discussed the art in his paintings that illustrate the collection.

The event centered around readings from the stories by young readers Jessica Aribam of New Delhi; Lam Okram and his sister Swarna of London; and sisters Thadoi and Nganthoi Khangembam, also of London.

M. Mangangsana, the noted balladeer and folklorist who served as a consultant to Roy, also demonstrated the oral aspect of the mythological tradition of Manipur with an excerpt from his opera Phou'oibi the Rice Goddess - also a tale in Roy's book.

Book Cover : And That is Why

Thokchom Lansana added to her father Thokchom Thouyangba Meitei's contribution as a source and consultant for the book, with a modern rendition of a ballad about Manipuri polo, also the subject of one of the stories in the book.

Others of the 23 participants and attendees hailed from the UK, US, and India, including New Delhi, Hyderabad, Assam, Sikkim, Nagaland, and Manipur.

The session recording may be heard on the YouTube channel of Tantha, media partner.

"And That Is Why" is available on Amazon worldwide and on Flipkart, as well as Ukiyo Bookstore in Imphal.

See a full photo gallery for this event here