Imphal, January 15: A series of formal inauguration functions marked the second day of the MANIFEST which began from Tuesday here at three different places within the Swabhumi, a heritage Plaza Complex here at Salt Lake (Kolkata) this afternoon.

The inaugural session among the day's three main programmes in the ongoing cultural "Festival of Manipuri Poetry" was held at Bioscope, a mini Hall of Swabhumi with the recitation of the Arts and Culture Minister Dr Nara's poem " Prakitina Tengthaba" (meaning, Cry of Nature) as part of the continuing weeklong MANIFEST.

Altogether 21 poets including eminent writer MK Binodini from Manipur who came all the way from North Eastern part of the country attended the gathering wherein a business session on "Manipuri Literature day" was also organized for the Manipuri poets.

The business session of the poets was chaired by prominent culturalist Leimapokpam Damodar while former principal of Manipur College Prof Laishram Sadananda and N Kunjamohan presented their papers.

On the other hand, Governor of West Bengal Virendra J Shah inaugurated the Manipur Arts exhibition at the exhibition hall of the Heritage Plaza of this metro city.

The Arts and Culture Minister Dr Nara and many other dignitaries of the both Manipur and host State also extended the formal inaugural function.

A total of 23 exhibitors of Manipur displayed their creations at the feast of arts.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor of West Bengal Shah while highlighting the cultural movements in the eastern region of the country stated that the culture brings unity among the different communities residing at different places of the country.

The executive head of West Bengal further added that the relationship between Manipuri and Bengalis have been strengthening day after day in view of the identical features of cultural activities in these two States.

Dr Nara, MK Binodini and others also spoke on the occasion.

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