Ukhrul, August 10: Renowned Zeliangrong musician Ringkhuanlung, popularly known as John Mpamei passed away on Sunday morning. John Mpamei breathed his last at a hospital in Guwahati, Assam, following a stroke he suffered a few days ago. He was 37.
John Mpamei, a recording artist, singer-songwriter and musician, was admitted to Health City Hospital, Khanapara, Guwahati on August 8, following a stroke. At the time of his passing, he was on vacation to India from his job as a music teacher at Birla Public School in Doha. Born and brought up in Manipur but currently based in Qatar, Mpamei had come to visit his family in Manipur last month (July).
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John Mpamei was one of the most prominent singers and well-known music educators of the Zeliangrong Naga community. He has released more than five official Music Videos on National and International TV channels, including Vh1, MTV, 9XO, among others. His new single “Panti khang su ni the” was released recently.
He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
Meanwhile, several organizations and individuals took to social media to extend their condolences over the death of the renowned musician.
The Birla Public School extended its condolences in an Instagram post.
“The Management, staff, and Students of Birla Public School, extend their heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones,” the school posted.
Also conveying its condolences, the Zeliangrong Students’ Union, Delhi (ZSUD) is deeply saddened and shocked by the untimely demise of John Mpamei.
“John Mpamei was one of the most talented and respected musicians of the Zeliangrong community. A dedicated music teacher, both in India and abroad, he shared his passion and knowledge generously, inspiring and guiding many young talents over the years. Through this teaching and artistry, he contributed greatly to the growth and preservation of our musical heritage.
Beyond his musical achievements, John was known for his humility, kindness, and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His passing leaves a great vois, not only in the music community but also in the hearts of all who knew him.
In this moment of profound loss, the ZSUD stands with his family, friends, and the entire Zeliangrong community in mourning. May we find comfort in cherishing the legacy he has left behind, and may the Almighty grant his soul eternal rest. His contributions and influence will be remembered for generations to come,” the ZSUD stated.
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“A true creative soul, Pouh John was a talented singer, songwriter, music composer, and a gifted performing and recording artist in English, Rongmei, and Manipuri languages. His music touched countless hearts, and his legacy will continue to live on through his work. The RPG family extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family during this difficult time. We share their grief and pray for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace,” the Rongmei Phwam Guwahati said in its condolence message.
The Rongmei Naga Students’ Organization, Guwahati (RNSOG), also extended its condolences and termed Mpamei’s death as an “irreparable loss”.
“The Rongmei Naga Students’ Organization, Guwahati (RNSOG) is deeply shocked and saddened by the untimely demise of Ringkhuanlung John Mpamei S/o Namchingdin Mpamei on the 10th of August 2025 at 6:45 a.m. at Health City Hospital, Guwahati.”
“Late Ringkhuanlung John Mpamei was not only a beloved member of our community but also a distinguished artist who made a remarkable mark in the field of music. As a gifted singer, songwriter, and performer, he carried the voice of the Rongmei people to national and international platforms. Through his albums, live performances, and heartfelt lyrics, he inspired countless young people and brought pride to the Northeast. His passion for music was matched only by his humility and dedication to uplifting others.
His passing is an irreparable loss not only to his family but to the entire Rongmei community and the music fraternity.
In this moment of grief, we extend our heartfelt condolences. We pray that the Almighty grants comfort, peace and strength to the bereaved family. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the RNSOG said in its condolence message.
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Tamenglong A/C MLA Janghemlung Panmei also condoled the demise of John Mpamei.
“Really saddened to hear of the demise of Pouh John Ringkhuanlung Mpamei, 37 years of age, who passed away today at Guwahati. He was a gifted songwriter, singer and musician, serving as a music teacher at Birla International School, Doha, Qatar. His Musical journey has touched many souls, and his legacy will live on through his work.I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members, relatives and dear ones of Late John Mpamei at this time of profound grief and sorrow. I pray for the presence of our heavenly father to grant fortitude and comfort to you all. May the departed soul rest in eternal peace,” the MLA wrote in a Facebook post.
Nungba A/C MLA Dinganglung Gangmei, who is also the chairman of the Hill Area Committee, also took to Facebook and wrote”
“With profound sadness, I bid farewell to the talented John Mpamei, a celebrated Songwriter, Singer, and a Musician who brought pride to the Zeliangrong community through his exceptional artistry, both at home and abroad. Hailing from the humble beginnings of Inrianglong Village, Tamenglong, John’s remarkable journey took him abroad, where he shared his passion for music as a dedicated teacher. His untimely passing, following a BP stroke, while returning from Doha, Qatar for a vacation to India, has left us in shock. Our thoughts are with his loving family – his wife, and their two beautiful daughters, who have lost a devoted father and partner. May John’s soul rest in eternal peace, and may God comfort his family during this difficult time, granting them strength and solace in cherished memories of his life and legacy”.