Livelihood support must to promote culture: Prof Gunindro
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, December 11 2021:
Initiatives to provide livelihood support to practitioners and proponents of art and culture is a must in order to promote and preserve culture, said Manipur University of Culture vice-chancellor professor Paonam Gunindro.
He was attending the inaugural function of a two-day seminar on 'Manipuri Dance and Music' organised to mark the 20th foundation day of performing art centre Sanchali and celebration of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, on Saturday.
Attending as chief guest of the event held at Manipur Dramatic Union auditorium, professor Gunindro said that the state has great potential in the field of sports, art & culture but steps taken up to promote art and culture are still questionable.
Though the population of the state makes up only 0.3 per cent of the country's total population, the contribution in the field of arts, culture and sports is tremendous.
Manipur's Raas Leela is among the few classical dances of the country and Nata Sankirtana has made it into the list of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
At the same time, Sagol Kangjei which originated in Manipur is being played across the globe as modern polo, he said.
The theme and aesthetic value of Manipuri culture is unique which is why its shines in the global arena.
Unfortunately, initiatives taken up to promote the culture are pathetic, the vice chancellor deplored.
While noting that instructors and ardent lovers of art and culture were at the fore-front of promoting the state's art and culture, he described as unfortunate that the days of those promoters have gone and the path of Manipuri art and culture is narrowing.
It needs active support including livelihood support to those who are practicing the rich art and culture of the state, Prof Gunindro reiterated.
He emphasised on the importance of seminars and workshops to promote Manipuri culture and expressed belief that the ongoing seminar will bring some positive vibes in the society.
Manipur University of Culture Humanities dean Nahakpam Aruna and Jawa-harlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy's former pradhan Guru S Thanil also attended the inaugural function.