Nupi Shumang Leela Competition begins
Nupi Shumang Leela state's intangible asset: M Joy
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 25 2021: As part of the 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav', Art and Culture Department inaugurated the 1st Nupi Shumang Leela Competition on the theme of "Women in Freedom Struggle" at Th Iboyaima Shanglen, Palace Compound here on Thursday.

Presided over by Art and Culture' director Ng Uttam, the inaugural function was attended commissioner (Art and Culture) M Joy as chief guest and Manipur State Shumang Leela Council lifetime president Ph Gunachandra Sharma as guest of honour.

In his speech, M Joy hailed Nupi Shumang Leela as Manipur's intangible asset as it has been playing an important role in preservation of the state's rich art, culture, custom, tradition, aesthetics and language, as the plays are mainly based on the history of the state, while being devoid of any contemporary elements.

He then observed that the younger generations seem to have limited knowledge of our vocabulary, which could potentially result in the disappearance of the native language.

Thus, preservation of Nupi Shumang Leela in such a situation is necessary not only in terms of its historical importance, but also in the sense of empowering women.

Delivering the presidential speech, Ng Uttam said that revival of an art form sometime requires venturing into the commercial space and increasing the attraction level for the audience.

However, care must be taken not to over-commercialise and affect our culture and traditions.

Thus, if Shumang Leela plays were to depict such destruction of culture and tradition, the same would be seen in the society in a matter of time.

Meanwhile, Ph Gunachandra Sharma expressed his elation on seeing conduct of the 1st Nupi Shumang Leela Competition and stressed the need for continuation of the same in the following years.

Around 8 Nupi Shumang Leela troupes are taking part in the competition which will continue till December 2.The competition will showcase one play a day.

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