Shumang Leela Ningtham Kumhei begins
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 15 2015:
The 11th Shumang Leela (Courtyard play) Ningtham Festival organised by Manipur State Shumang Leela Council began today at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Imphal.
Agriculture Minister Md Abdul Nasir attended as chief guest of the inaugural function while chairman of Manipur Pollution Control Board, Dr Ng Bijoy attended as the president and social worker S Manaoton was the guest of honour.
Stressing the need to preserve the rich art form of the State, Md Nasir pointed out that Manipur has been the producing various other art forms for so many years.
He further said that sports and art and culture are two fields where Manipur excels at the National as well as international arenas.
He assured to make efforts towards the promotion of Shumang Leela in consultation with departments concerned and the Chief Minister.
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Dr Ng Bijoy said that Shumang Leela has played a pivotal role in educating the masses.
It has been a very effective form of media for spreading information and providing entertainment to the people, he said.
He asserted that Shumang Leela has bridged the gap between various communities of the society and brought the people together.
He appealed to all sections of the society to work for the promotion of such precious art form.
The annual Peedonu Memorial Award which has been conferred to outstanding Shumang Leela artistes has been increased to Rs 30,000 according to S Manaoton who is the donor of the award.
Speaking at the function, Manaoton said that Shumang Leela is a form of communication which is universal.
He added that Shumang Leela has helped the people get a glimpse of various events that happened in the past.
Iramdam Manipur Artists' Association staged a play called 'Chakpa Makhao Ngambi' for the audience during the inaugural event.