Embarking on the study of Manipuri Literature as a UPSC optional subject opens a door to a rich cultural heritage nestled in the heart of Northeast India. This unique opportunity delves not only into the literary treasures of Manipuri, one of the official languages of India, but also explores its fascinating linguistic journey within the Tibeto-Burman family. Prepare to delve into the evolution of the Manipuri language, its distinct characteristics, and a captivating literary landscape spanning ancient epics to vibrant contemporary works.
Manipuri Paper 1
Section – A
Language:
(a) General characteristics of Manipuri Language and history of its development; its importance and status among the Tibeto-Burman Languages of North-East India; recent development in the study of Manipuri Language; evolution and study of old Manipuri script.
(b) Significant features of Manipuri Language:
(i) Phonology : Phoneme-vowels, consonants juncture, tone, consonant cluster and its occurrence, syllable-its structure, pattern and types.
(ii) Morphology : Word-class, root and its types; affix and its types; grammatical categories-gender, number, person, case, tense and aspects, process of compounding (samas and sandhi).
(iii) Syntax : Word order; types of sentences, phrase and clause structures.
Section – B
(a) Literary History of Manipuri:
Early period (up to 17th Century)–Social and cultural background; Themes, diction and style of the works.
Medieval period (18th and 19th Century)-Social, religious and political background; Themes, diction and style of the works.
Modern period-Growth of major literary forms; change of Themes, diction and style.
(b) Manipuri Folk Literature:
Legend, Folktale, Folksong, Ballad, Proverb and Riddle.
(c) Aspects of Manipuri Culture:
Pre-Hindu Manipuri Faith; Advent of Hinduism and the process of syncreticism;
Performing arts-Lai Haraoba, Maha Ras;
Indegenous games-Sagol Kangjei, Khong Kangjei, Kang.
Manipuri Paper 2
Section – A
(a) Old Manipuri Literature :
- O. Bhogeswar Singh (Ed.) : Numit Kappa
- M. Gourachandra Singh (Ed.) : Thawanthaba Hiran
- N. Khelchandra Singh (Ed.) : Naothingkhong
Phambal Kaba - M. Chandra Singh (Ed.) : Panthoibi Khonggul
(b) Medieval Manipuri Literature :
- M. Chandra Singh (Ed.) : Samsok Ngamba
- R.K. Snahal Singh (Ed.) : Ramayana Adi Kanda
- N. Khelchandra Singh (Ed.) : Dhananjoy Laibu Ningba
- O. Bhogeswar Singh (Ed.) : Chandrakirti Jila Changba
Section – B
Modern Manipuri Literature:
(a) Poetry and Epic:
(I) Poetry:
(a) Manipuri Sheireng (Pub) Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, 1998 (Ed.)
Kh. Chaoba Singh : Pi Thadoi, Lamgi CheklaAmada, Loktak
Dr. L. Kamal Singh : Nirjanata, Nirab Rajani
A. Minaketan Singh : Kamalda, Nonggumlalkkhoda.
L. Samarendra Singh : Ingagi Nong, Mamang Leikai Thambal Satle
E. Nilakanta Singh : Manipur, Lamangnaba
Shri Biren : Tangkhul Hui
Th. Ibopishak : Anouba Thunglaba Jiba.
(b) Kanchi Sheireng. (Pub) Manipur University 1998 (Ed.)
Dr. L. Kamal Singh : Biswa-Prem
Shri Biren : Chaphadraba Laigi Yen
Th. Ibopishak : Norok Patal Prithivi
(II) Epic :
- A. Dorendrajit Singh : Kansa Bodha
- H. Anganghal Singh : Khamba-Thoibi Sheireng(San-Senba, Lei Langba,Shamu Khonggi Bichar)
(III) Drama :
- S. Lalit Singh : Areppa Marup
- G.C. Tongbra : Matric Pass
- A. Samarendra : Judge Saheb ki Imung
(b) Novel, Short-story and Prose:
(I) Novel:
- Dr. L. Kamal Singh : Madhabi
- H. Anganghal Singh : Jahera
- H. Guno Singh : Laman
- Pacha Meetei : Imphal Amasung, MagiIshing, Nungsitki Phibam
(II) Short-story:
(a) Kanchi Warimacha (Pub) Manipur University 1997(Ed.)
R.K. Shitaljit Singh : Kamala Kamala
M.K. Binodini : Eigi Thahoudraba HeitupLalu
Kh. Prakash : Wanom Shareng
(b) Parishadki Khangatlaba Warimacha (Pub) Manipuri Sahitya Parishad 1994 (Ed.)
S. Nilbir Shastri : Loukhatpa
R.K. Elangba : Karinunggi
(c) Anouba Manipuri Warimacha (Pub) The Cultural Forum Manipur 1992 (Ed.)
N. Kunjamohon Singh : Ijat Tanba
E. Dinamani : Nongthak Khongnang
(III) Prose :
(a) Warenggi Saklon Due Part The Cultural Forum Manipur 1992 (Ed.)
Kh. Chaoba Singh : Khamba-Thoibigi WariAmasung Mahakavya
(b) Kanchi Wareng (Pub) Manipur University, 1998 (Ed.)
B. Manisana Shastri : Phajaba
Ch. Manihar Singh : Lai-Haraoba
(c) Apunba Wareng (Pub) Manipur University, 1986 (Ed.)
Ch. Pishak Singh : Samaj Amasung Sanskriti
M.K. Binodini : Thoibidu Warouhouida
Eric Newton : Kalagi Mahousa (translated by I.R. Babu)
(d) Manipuri Wareng (Pub) The Cultural Forum Manipur 1999 (Ed.)
S. Krishnamohan Singh : Lan
5 FAQs on Manipuri Literature Optional Subject – UPSC
1. Is Manipuri Literature a good choice for the UPSC Mains exam?
Answer: It can be a good choice if you have a strong background in Manipuri language and literature. It can be a scoring subject if you develop a deep understanding and can express yourself well. However, it’s a niche subject, so resources might be limited compared to more common options.
2. What are the advantages of choosing Manipuri Literature?
Answer:
- Uniqueness: Less competition compared to popular choices.
- In-depth Knowledge: Allows showcasing expertise in Manipuri culture and heritage.
- Scoring Potential: Scoring high marks if you have a strong grasp of the subject.
3. What are the challenges of choosing Manipuri Literature?
Answer:
- Limited Resources: Finding study materials and coaching might be difficult.
- Language Fluency: Requires a high level of proficiency in Manipuri for comprehension and expression.
- Time Commitment: Mastering the subject might require significant time investment.
4. What are the topics covered in the Manipuri Literature syllabus?
Answer: The syllabus typically covers various aspects of Manipuri literature, including:
- History and development of Manipuri literature
- Different genres like poetry, drama, prose, etc.
- Major literary figures and their works
- Socio-cultural context reflected in literature
- Literary criticism and analysis
5. How can I prepare for the Manipuri Literature optional subject?
Answer:
- Build Language Skills: Ensure fluency in reading, writing, and speaking Manipuri.
- Collect Resources: Look for UPSC recommended books, academic journals (if available), and guidance from experts if possible.
- Practice Answer Writing: Focus on developing strong analytical and critical thinking skills for exam-style questions.
- Previous Year Papers: Solve previous year question papers to understand the exam pattern and marking scheme.
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