Najma attends Nata Sankirtana celebration
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, December 04 2019: Governor Dr Najma Heptulla today graced the function 'Celebrating Sankirtana of Manipur: India's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity' as the chief guest at the Banquet Hall, 1st MR, Imphal.

The programme was jointly organized by Intellectual Forum of North East, Department of Sankirtana, Manipur University of Culture, Department of Dance and Music, Manipur University and Manipur Citizen Forum.

The function was held to commemorate inclusion of Manipuri Nata Sankirtana in the UNESCO's intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

In her speech as the chief guest, the Governor said that State Level Committee of Nata Sankirtana has been observing Sankirtana Day on this auspicious day commemorating induction of Sankirtana music in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in the sitting of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee in December, 2013 .

The Governor further stated that the rich cultural heritage of Manipur is well recognized by UNESCO and has a respectable presence in the international arena of culture.

Manipur is today best introduced to the world through her rich performing art and culture.

It is through the Manipuri culture that the world knows the existence of such a tiny State in this far-flung North Eastern part of the country.

She reiterated that Manipuri dance is not the art of Manipur alone, it is also an art of this country as a whole.

She said that artistes from the State have brought commendations and recognition from all over the world.

"The grace and power of attracting viewers' mind is superb in the elegant Manipuri dance which is a delicately sensitive type of classical dance including Nata Sankirtana music.

It is our bounden duty to preserve, nurture and enrich Manipuri culture so that it may continue to enrich the Indian culture," she added.

Retired AIR Joint Director BB Sharma, highlighted the origin of Nata Sankirtana and the philosophy of the Sankirtana tradition.

Prof N Lokendra Singh, Dept of History, Manipur University spoke on the topic 'Safeguarding and Promotion of Sankirtana' .

Noted Gurus were also felicitated as a mark of respect for their dedication in promoting Sankirtana.

Dr Ch Chandramani Singh, convener, Manipur Citizen Forum, distinguished Nata Sankirtana Gurus and artistes, faculties and staff of Manipur University of Culture and Manipur University and members of Manipur Citizen Forum and Intellectual Forum of North East attended the function.

Comment