MSSLC awards Chana Lukhoi
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 12 2023:
The Manipur State Shumang Leela Council (MSSLC) observed the 23rd Shumang Leela Day at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen today and handed over the Thokchom Iboyaima Award to noted playwright Chana Lukhoi (Oinamcha Tunan) .
Chana Lukhoi is also a columnist of The Sangai Express (Manipuri edition) .
Dignitaries present at the function included Dr Ratan Thiyam, chairman, Chorus Repertory Theatre as the chief guest; M Purnimashi Leima, president, MSSLC as the functional president and Ph Gunachandra Sharma, lifetime member of MSSLC and State Kala Akademi Awardee as the guest of honour.
It may be noted that the Thokchom Iboyaima Award was floated by MSSLC in 2002 and comes with a cash prize of Rs 50,000 along with a citation and a shawl.
Panthou Sangai a play of Lamjingba Artist Association was also staged.
Speaking as the chief guest, Dr Ratan Thiyam hailed the artistes who have made significant contributions towards the development of Shumang Leela.
"It is with the effort of all Shumang Leela artistes, both living and deceased, that this art form has been able to reach its present status", he said.
Maintaining that every place has its own unique folk tradition, the theatre director asserted that he has found none as popular as Shumang Leela.
Dr Ratan Thiyam noted that Shumang Leela is a traditional form of theatre that has strong foundations and can stand on its own.
He further lauded the family of Late Thokchom Iboyaima for their efforts in ensuring the establishment of the MSSLC.
Saying that there is a need to bring about global recognition of the art form of Shumang Leela, he sought the attention of State leaders to promote and advocate this art form.