Tributes paid to State's culture
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 25 2017:
It is not enough to say that the Manipuri culture is recognised in many parts of the world, said L Upendro Sharma, Director, Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy .
The director was speaking as a chief guest at the 59th birth anniversary of the Huyen Lallong Thang Ta Cultural Association, Irilbung, which is one of the oldest cultural institutes in Manipur.
Several eminent and acclaimed personalities in the field of art and culture participated in the event.
L Upendro Sharma continued that it is a unique feat for an institute to exist for nearly six decades and that the Sangeet Natak Akademi had already video-documented thang ta as an art form.
He added the Manipuri culture is rich and vibrant that it has been recognised globally .
However, he cautioned it would be imprudent to be satisfied just by stating it has got the recognition.
In the changing cultural landscapes of the 21st century, he said it is essential to adapt to the changing tastes and values .
The director lamented that there is a disconnection between scholars and performers in the state and expressed his desire to bridge this gap.
He estimated the performers make up 75% while the scholars 25% and that it is vital for them to work together.
He said there should be good books on art forms of Manipur but there is an acute lack of literature, for instance, on the dance forms, despite our pride that the Manipuri culture is recognised across the globe.
He suggested working closely with the Government would be helpful in patching the holes in this regard .
He further proposed that the 60th anniversary of the Huyen Lallong Thang Ta Cultural Association should be held in a grand manner with a festival or a discussion .
The president of the event, S Thanil, the Padmashree awardee, expressed that there are many individuals in the state with its rich cultural resources, who are meritorious for prestigious awards such as those from the Sangeet Natak Akademi and others.
He praised that the founder guru and former director of the institute, G Gourakishore Sharma is one legendary figure while adding the institute has played a great role in inspiring people from other parts of the world to come to Manipur and learn the art forms.