Guru Rewben rues State apathy
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 29 2012: Award winner folk artiste Guru Rewben Mashangva has lamented lack of financial assistance from the Government of Manipur inspite of his performances periodically putting the state in the limelight.

Recently conferred with the National Tribal Award in recognition of his endeavour to promote tribal folk music, Guru Rewben confessed to newspersons at Manipur Press Club today that mere accolades and trophies cannot be expected to sustain livelihood.

Conceding that despite a number of awards conferred upon him, life is still a struggle for no Government institution is willing to provide financial support in his ceaseless endeavour to conduct researches for re-invigorating the decaying tribal folk music and art form, Rewben disclosed that his intimation to both the state Government and Department of Art and Culture for financial assistance is yet to be responded in a positive manner.

Reminding that folk art and music form is dwindling in popularity among the younger generation due to lack of financial rewards associated with the traditional art form, he cautioned that failure to understand the existing situation will only lead to gradual extinction of the tribal art and culture.

Stating that performances at national or international events fetches him about Rs 2000 each per show but as these events are not held on a frequent basis alternative means of livelihood had to be pursued to support his family of four sons, Rewben said his wife chips in to the family need by working as a private school teacher.

So far, Rewben has released an album under the Times Music banner while his exploits in the field of folk music has been documented.

Taking part at the media interaction, lyricist of Rewben's songs Ngachonmi Chamroi said that the folk artiste's music album has both contemporary taste and spreads message of peace and unity.

On the otherhand, Rewben's event manager James informed that plans are afoot to launch a 'Winning Peace Together' campaign in the coming months based on Rewben's songs.

Comment