Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 11:
The 33rd All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival, 2005 has begun from today at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound here.
The festival would continue till March 4 next and is being organised by Manipur State Kala Akademi.
Art and Culture Minister Ph Parijat Singh and Director of Chorus Repertory Theatre, Imphal Ratan Thiyam inaugurated the festival as chief guest and president respectively.
Speaking at the occasion, Parijat said Shumang leela is a popular art which plays an important role in development of the society besides providing entertainment to the people.
In view of this, he appealed to the artistes and directors to give more concentration in bringing out such plays which could give social message of peace, hard working, discipline, etc among the people.
In his presidential address, Ratan Thiyam observed no other art form part from Shumang Leela could earn money from organising festival.
For development of Shumang Leela, the noted theatre personality mooted giving fellowship to artistes of this traditional art form.
Art and Culture Director Dr Kh Sorojini Devi, who is also the secretary of Manipur State Kala Akademi, gave the welcome address of the inaugural function.