Grief hung heavy in the air on Friday as Manipur’s Kangpokpi laid to rest one of its brightest stars, Lamnunthem Singson, the young Air India cabin crew member who tragically lost her life in the recent Ahmedabad air crash. Thousands gathered to pay their final respects in an emotionally charged ceremony that marked one of the town’s most solemn farewells.
Lamnunthem, who was just beginning a promising aviation career, was buried with full honours at the Kangpokpi Town Cemetery. Her funeral procession followed a moving service held at her family residence in Ngambom Veng, where a sea of mourners — relatives, friends, civil society leaders and members of the Kuki-Zo community — came together in collective mourning.
Manipur MLA Nemcha Kipgen delivered a poignant tribute, calling Lamnunthem a “symbol of resilience and pride.” Struggling to hold back tears, Kipgen said, “Though she lived a short life, Lamnunthem elevated Kangpokpi to a globally recognised name through her supreme sacrifice while serving the nation.” The legislator then performed a solemn gesture of honour, draping a traditional shawl over the coffin as a mark of respect and solidarity.
Among those present were senior government officials, including Kangpokpi SP Manoj Prabhakar and personnel from the 112 Battalion of the CRPF, who earlier received her mortal remains at the airport. They joined the community in offering salutes and ceremonial shawls, moving many to tears.
Also read: Family receives mortal remains of AI crew member
The funeral drew tributes from all corners — the Haipi Baptist Church TBAI, Haipi Village Authority, Ngambom Veng Committee and numerous other groups remembered Lamnunthem not only for her professional dedication but for her kindness, vibrant spirit and unwavering love for Manchester United.
Final prayers were led by Reverend Paominlen Kipgen as Lamnunthem’s mother, siblings and close friends bid her a heartbreaking goodbye. Her passing has created a profound void not just in her home, but across Kangpokpi — a town now united in sorrow, remembrance and pride.
Lamnunthem Singson’s legacy will live on — as a daughter who touched the skies and even in her final journey, brought honour to her people and her homeland.
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