Shumang Leela powerful medium for mass education: Governor
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, August 27 2022:
Governor La Ganesan said that Shumang Leela has become a powerful medium for mass education besides giving entertainment and relaxation in Manipuri society.
Speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural function of 50th All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival 2021-2022 at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound here on Saturday, Ganesan pointed out that Shumang Leela originally started as a comic genre presented before the kings and noblemen but eventually developed into the present form of courtyard enacted play.
He said Shumang Leela groups in those days attempted to preserve and promote humanism, tolerance, confidence, devotion, truth and justice through their performances.
Stating that Shumang Leela is today developed both theatrically and artistically, Ganesan maintained that the present day Shumang Leela portray issues of moral values, unity and integrity.
It has also been trying to strengthen the bond of brotherhood and friendship among various communities in the state.
Hence, it acts as a catalyst in bringing peace and harmony in society and as such it is the responsibility of all irrespective of caste, creed, religion and language to preserve and promote unity and integrity of the state, he said.
The Governor also appealed to all sections of the society to contribute their best in their capacities with sincerity, discipline and confidence for ensuring peace in the state so that it can move towards progress and prosperity.
He also thanked Manipur State Kala Akademi (MSKA) for their relentless efforts in organising festivals, exhibitions, seminars, workshops and instituting awards and scholarships for art and culture personalities over the years.
Chief minister N Biren, who also attended the function, said Shumang Leela festival is an encouraging event in the held of art & culture in the state and expressed that Shumang Leela is an important art form which is indispensable to society by taking great role in educating people in many aspects of life and in bringing reforms in the society.
Stating that Shumang Leela is an effective medium for mass awareness and education, he said, even during Covid-19 pandemic, the medium took a great role in educating people about the disease and awareness of how it can be minimised.
He also highlighted the need for participation of more women in this art form stating that it will help bring about a change in society.
Biren continued that the government is committed to support the artistes in the state and stated that CM's Pension Scheme for Artistes has been implemented and separate budgetary allocation has been made for organising Shumang Leela Festival.
He said, under Ayushman Bharat and CMHT, all artistes are covered and health cards will be issued.
The CM also assured of further assistance to the artistes even in the future though state has limited resources.
He also asked for cooperation while taking up any developmental works in the future.
Earlier, CM Biren informed that Linthoi Chanambam claimed a historic gold medal at World Cadet Judo Championship in Bosnia's capital Sarajevo, becoming the first Indian to win a medal in the tournament across any age group.
He also informed that state government will honour Linthoi Chanambam for her achievement.
During the function, Governor Ganesan distributed medals to the winners of 49th All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival, 2020-21 .
Altogether 25 Shumang Leela Groups - 11 male and 14 female are participating in the festival which is being organised by MSKA as a part of its Golden Jubilee Celebration.
The inaugural event was also attended by Art & Culture commissioner M Joy, director L Kishorjit Singh, artistes and students.
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