Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 19:
Manipur 'Dramatic Union organised a function today at its hall marking the "100 yrs of Manipuri Proscenium Theatre".
Governor Ved Marwah, former VC Rup Mahal Theatre Khongbantabam Tolhal Singh and president MDU Hidangmayum Thambal Sharma presided the function as the chief guest, guest of honour and president respectively.
Speaking at the occasion, the Governor said that theatre is the only kind of creative expression in the field of art, which deals so frankly with all the human problems with live performances and the only medium which has such intimate interaction with audiences.
Commenting on the roots of theatre in India he maintained that theatre in India has ancient roots and unique characteristics and added that it cannot be categorized in neat, narrow categories like its Western counterpart because Western theatre distinguishes between drama, rituals and dances.
On the other hand, the Governor stated that Indian theatre performances involve a synthesis of dance, music, drama and other rituals as well.
It is a dynamic sphere with constant interaction between its classical roots, the rites and rituals that are based on ancient beliefs, the folk culture, which is an integral part of life in rural India, and a modem environment caught between its traditional roots and naturalistic western culture.
While praising the rich cultural heritage of the Manipuris he added that Manipuri culture occupies a place of pride in the cultural map of the country and its proud tradition reflects the unique character of the Manipuri people.
Referring to the myriad problems confronting the State in the fields of social, political, economic and law and order the Governor maintained that everybody in the State has to recognize the fact that without peace, the wheels of development cannot move fast.
He also said that development and peace are two sides of the same coin and development and prosperity are the products of peace.