Importance of promoting Thang-Ta art form highlighted
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 19 2022:
The valedictory function of the month-long workshop on 'Women's Empowerment Through Thang-Ta' was held today at Khongman Zone III community hall.
Notably, the workshop was organised by Manipur Thang-Ta Cultural Association under the aegis of Ministry of Culture, Govt of India.
As a part of the function, floral tributes were offered to deceased Thang-Ta veterans as a mark of honour.
Dignitaries present at the valedictory ceremony include Thongam Biswajit, Power Minister; Naorem Chonjon Singh, president, Manipur Thang-Ta Cultural Association; Moirangthem Nungshirei Devi, Khongman Gram Panchayat, Imphal East; Budha Chingtham, president, Cultural workers & Activist forum (CWAF); K Sanathoiba Sharma, Director, Huyen Lallong Manipur Thang-Ta Cultural Association and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee and Dr Elam Indira Devi, retd senior guru, JN Manipur Dance Academy and Padmashree awardee as the presidium members.
|
Speaking as the chief guest, Th Biswajit pointed out the need for positive thinking among women to bring about their upliftment and empowerment.
He stated that reinforcing negative stereotypes about women regarding their social status etc creates a mindset primed for oppression.
Speaking about Thang-Ta, the Power Minister stated that the artform originated very early in the history of Manipur.
Maintaining that it can be learned for self-defence, he also underscored the need to provide patronage to this artform.
Budha Chingtham also spoke on the occasion and lauded the workshop calling it meaningful and one of the first of its kind.
He then highlighted the need for a cultural policy to ensure better living standards for artistes.
Stating that in the past women were limited to the fields of teaching and banking in terms of their career choice, K Sanathoiba Sharma stated that women have now ventured into the field of defence and many other departments.
He also expressed hope for more women to learn self-defence.