Imphal, February 24: The three day long cultural extravaganza, the 7th Bhagyachandra National Festival of Classical Dance being organised by Dept of Art and Culture, Govt of Manipur in collaboration with Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre has begun from today.

The inaugural function was held at Ramjee Prabhu Mandop at Wangkhei Ningthem Pukhri Mapal and was attended by Art and Culture Minister Ph Parijat as chief guest, retired secretary of Manipur State Kala Akademi Prof L Damodar as president and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee L Thambalngoubi Devi and Commissioner (Art and Culture) RR Rashmi as guests of honour.

The function started off with offering of floral tributes to the memorial of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra in whose name the festival is being dedicated.

Addressing at the occasion, Parijat appreciated Govt of India for recognising the rich cultural heritage of Manipur and pointed out the need for including a separate budget allocation for further development of art and cultural activities in the State.

Speaking as president of the function, Damodar highlighted the contribution made by Rajarshi Bhagyachandra for development of art and culture in Manipur.

Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee L Thambalngoubi lamented that the younger generation artistes lack dedication and seriousness in their profession.

Commissioner (Art and Culture) RR Rashmi observed that organising such festivals would boost the morale of the artistes thereby leading to further development of cultural activities in the State.

On the inaugural day today, Nata Sankirtana and Nitya Raas were performed by Manipuri artistes.

The remaining two days of the festival would be held at BOAT, Palace Compound where recitation of classical dances like Manipuri, Bharat Natyam and Odissi would be performed daily from 6 pm onwards.

On the second day tomorrow, Anusaya Banerjee of West Bengal would performe Bharat Natyam and Oinam Surmila Devi and N Amusana Devi would present solo Manipuri dance.

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