Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 26:
Noted Shumang leela playwright and columnist of The Sangai Express (Manipuri edition) Oinam Lukhoi, more popularly known as Chana Lukhoi has been honoured with the Ist IACAM Award, 2006 during an impressive function at Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre (BOAT) here this afternoon.
Chana Lukhoi being conferred the IACAM award
He is the first recipient of the award instituted by Indigenous Art and Culture Association, Manipur (IACAM) to honour noted Shumang Leela playwrights in Manipur.
The award is donated by Shijagurumayum family in memory of late Shijagurumayum Nilbir Shastri.
Chana Lukhoi had also been decorated with many best script writer awards by Manipur State Kala Akademi in the past, apart from having written drama for AIR, Imphal and Doordharshan Kendra, Imphal.
Speaking as chief guest of the function, Art and Culture Minister Ph Parijat stated Manipur Government has been making all out efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the people.
In order to develop Kangla Fort which was handed over to the people in 2004, a huge amount of fund has been kept aside, Parijat said, adding that developmental works of the historic fort has been taken up on a war footing.
Department of Forest and Department of Horticulture are currently taking up tree plantation work inside the fort, he said.
The Minister further announced that renovation of BOAT at an estimated cost of Rs 1 crores would be soon taken up to make it more convenient for performance of Shumang Leelas.
As part of the award presentation ceremony two Shumang Leelas namely Kaidongpham of Naharol Khongthang Artistes' Association and Ichegi Ibungo of Dedicated World Artistes' Association were also released today.