Academic discourse on 'Manipuri Classical Dance' held
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 18 2026:
An academic discourse on "Manipuri Classical Dance (Solo)" was held today at the Nrityashala hall of the Government Dance College, Konung Mamang.
The event was organised by the Dance Drama Music Repertoire Union Manipur (DDMRUM) to mark its 21st anniversary.
The discourse, which included a lecture-cum-demonstration, featured renowned dance teacher Ranjit Adhikarimayum as the keynote speaker.
He stated that while the Raas Leela, introduced by Maharaj Bheigyachandra in 1779, serves as the foundation of Manipuri Classical Dance, no independent solo classical dance form has been developed since.
He stressed the urgent need to create a distinct solo classical dance for future generations, warning that without such efforts, the dance form could face an identity crisis.
The discussions focused on identifying the core elements of the region's ancient dance traditions, methods for their preservation, and the feasibility of teaching classical dance independently.
The event was chaired by G Dharmadas Sharma, Joint Director of the Arts & Culture Department.
Resource persons included Dr L Gojendra Singh, Dr B C Khuman, Rajmani Ayekpam, Indrakumar Soibamcha, Ranabir Khoisnam, and L Upendra Sharma.




