40th Shumang Leela Festival commences
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, February 02, 2012:
The 40th All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival 2012 organised by Manipur State Kala Akademi commenced from today at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound, Imphal.
24 leela groups which include seven male and 17 female groups are participating in the festival which will go on till February 18. Renowned theatre personality, Padmashree H Kanhailal and State Kala Akademi Awardee Leihaothabam Ibotombi graced the inaugural function as Chief Guest and President respectively.
Director, Arts and Culture K Sobita also attended as Guest of Honour.
Padmashree H Kanhailal lauding the contribution and dedication of female leela groups to this art form said that one should not compare between the male and female Shumang leela in the festival since there are many difference between the two.
The female associations mostly take up plays of historical incidents of Manipur, he said.
Arts and Culture Director K Sobita said that Shumang Leela shows the customs and tradition to the people.
It is indeed a welcoming sign that many female associations are participating in the festival this year.
The Department of Arts and Culture has been presenting incentives to dedicated artistes and honouring elder artistes with Lifetime Achievement Award with an aim to upheld and develop Arts in the state.
The department will also take up many initiatives to develop Arts and Culture in the state in future, she added.
A brochure for the plays to be showcased during the festival was also released as part of the inaugural function.
Prize contenders of the previous edition of the festival were honoured with gifts during the function.