Imphal, October 9, 2026: Manipur University’s School of Humanities felicitated national award-winning teacher Dr. Pukhrambam Lilabati Devi, with Dean Prof. T. Tampha describing her achievement as a source of pride for the University and encouraging her to pursue further distinction in teaching and the performing arts.
Dr. Lilabati Devi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Dance and Music, was honoured at the Dean’s Office, School of Humanities, Canchipur, for receiving the National Award to Teachers of Higher Educational Institutions and Polytechnics–2026.
Prof. Tampha presented her with a memento and a silk lengyan phi. Sahitya Akademi Awardee Prof. Koijam Shantibala Devi also presented four books to her.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Tampha said the national recognition was a proud moment for both the School of Humanities and Manipur University. She expressed happiness that a member of the University’s faculty had earned the distinction and encouraged Dr. Lilabati Devi to build on the achievement through continued dedication to teaching and the performing arts.
Wishing her greater success, Prof. Tampha urged her to aspire to further distinguished honours and continue bringing recognition to the University.
The felicitation follows several recent occasions on which academic and cultural organisations have recognised Dr. Lilabati Devi’s achievements. On September 18, the Manipur University Working Women’s Association honoured her during its Foundation Day and Annual Lunch Programme.
She also received the Naad Nartan Excellent Research Paper Award 2025 in Bengaluru on September 26, 2026. According to Manipur University, the award was presented during the concluding programme of an international conference and concert on “Indian Knowledge System and Its Relevance to Performing Arts,” where she had presented a research paper. The recognition added a research distinction to her national teaching honour.
On October 5, she was felicitated during Ritu Mangaa, a festival of Manipuri Solo Dance organised by the ex-students of Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, Imphal. Together, these events reflect the recognition she has received from colleagues in higher education and members of Manipur’s performing arts community.
Dr. Naorem Ahanjao, Assistant Professor in the Department of Manipuri, delivered the welcome address. Former Deans of the School of Humanities, Prof. N. Aruna and Prof. N. Pramodini, also addressed the gathering.
Heads of departments and faculty members of the School of Humanities attended the programme, which concluded with a vote of thanks by L. Birjita Devi, Head of the Department of Manipuri.
