Imphal: The Interfaith Forum Manipur (IFM) celebrated its third foundation day by presenting the inaugural Annual Peaceful Coexistence Award 2026. The organization honored two prominent figures for their dedication to promoting reconciliation and interfaith harmony within the state: Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou and the late Bhaktisvarupa Swami Damodara.
Rev. Sitlhou, president of the Thadou Baptist Association of India and a former leader of the Manipur Baptist Convention, was recognized for his long-standing work in community relations. Swami Damodara, who founded the ISKCON temple and Mani Mandir in Manipur, received the honor posthumously. Representatives Prabhu Banamali of ISKCON and Archbishop Linus Neli of the Catholic Diocese of Imphal accepted the awards on their behalf. Each recipient received a citation, an IFM Lengyan, and a cash prize of 10,000 rupees.
The event drew nearly 100 attendees, including religious leaders, scholars, and legal professionals. Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh served as the chief guest, joined by Lainingthou Sanamahi Temple Board member Sandham Gandharaj. Addressing the group, speakers emphasized the necessity of mutual respect and unity to improve the region's social fabric.
Acharya Deben Bachaspatimayum, the forum's convener, delivered an annual report emphasizing the history of local religious cooperation. He announced several new initiatives during the ceremony, including a youth peacebuilding fellowship. Regarding the forum's mission, he stated, "the interfaith initiative is a continuation of the composite cultural heritage of Manipur, where diverse religions have enriched a unique culture of interfaith understanding and peaceful coexistence."
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