'Celebration of unity week' begins
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 26 2021: As part of the nationwide Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration in connection with the 75th year of India's independence, a 23-day long 'Celebration of national unity week' observance being organised by the art & culture department commenced from Tuesday.

The opening ceremony of the unity week at Maharaj Chandrakriti auditorium, Palace compound was attended by Manipur University of Culture vice chancellor professor P Gunindro as chief guest and commissioner (art & culture) M Joy as president.

The highlight of the celebration week which is being conducted on the theme 'Expression of unity through theatrical performance' will feature performance of plays by 23 different theatre groups which received financial assistance under 'Chief Minister Gee Artiste Singee Tengbang'.

In his speech at the opening ceremony, professor P Gunindro recalled the origin of theatre movement in Manipur and called upon the theatre groups and playwrights of the state to concentrate more on producing plays which could create message on unity, condition of the society and the ever-diminishing discipline and humane character particularly among younger generation.

The erstwhile beautiful tradition and discipline of the society need to be taught and seen among younger generation as absence of rationale mind-set is one main reason for chaos in the contemporary Manipuri society, he said, adding that theatre could play a key role in teaching lesson to younger generation.

In his address, M Joy said that people need to reap benefit from the 'Celebration of national unity week' by witnessing plays of the theatre groups which availed financial assistance under 'Chief Minister Gee Artiste Singee Tengbang'.

He also expressed hope that the observance will give new spirit among those deeply interested in theatre and theatrical works.

After the opening ceremony, Wangoi based Manipur Theatre Academy's (MATA) play 'Nungshi Leipun' was presented to the audience.

The play based on Bangladeshi writer Taslima Nashreen's poem 'Happy Marriage' has been adapted, designed and directed by Sarungbam Biren.

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