The Hueiyen Rendezvous - IV:: Balladeer Tomba still vigourous to bring up Khongjom Parva
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, July 21 2013: In an effort to preserve and promote the dying folk art forms of Manipur, Hueiyen Lanpao Columnists' Forum organized the 4th Edition of Hueiyen Rendezvous today showcasing the popular Manipuri ballad "Khongjom Parva" presented by noted balladeer Maibam Tomba, better known as Lamjao Tomba.

The programme was held at the Literary Hall of Hueiyen Lanpao Group of Publication, Sega Road Thouda Bhavok Leikai.

75-year-old Tomba is the living senior most student of legendary balladeer Thanga Mangoljao.

He presented a part of "Moirang Kangleirol" (one of two divisions of Khongjom Parva) dwelling on the love story of Henjunaha and Leirourembi.

According to legend, on the day of their rendezvous, Henjunaha was killed by evil spirits on the night of first Saturday of Manipuri month "Lamta", while Leirourembi took her own life on hearing the death of her love.

But both of them were given new lease life by the almighty god.

Noted balladeer Maibam Tomba

Tomba mesmerized the audience with the story of this lovely couple Henjunaha and Leirourembi right from their death to resurrection.

The rich folk art forms of the State alive vividly to the eyes of the audience with his elegant style and vigour of presentation.

On behalf of the columnists, noted lyricist B Jayentakumar Sharma chatted with Lamjao Tomba after his presentation.

Tomba lamented that the once popular culture of organizing Khongjom Parva in every locality is now lost.

The folk arts forms of the State are gradually dying with lack of interest and patronage among the present generation.

Tomba said that he would perform the "Kangleirol" for more than one month continuously without charging any fee if someone provides the venue.

He further stated that the Government has allowed presentation of "Khongjom Parva" from this year onwards on Khongjom Day, commemorating the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891 at the battlefield of Khongjom on April 23. Such a move would help to preserve the age-old art form of Khongjom Parva and promote it to the present generation.

Tomba added that four students are currently learning "Kangleirol" under his guidance and many people in Cachar and Bangladesh have also expressed desire to learn this ballad.

Meanwhile, Hueiyen Lanpao Columnists' Forum has begun preparation for the next edition of Hueiyen Rendezvous to showcase Manipur's rich folk art forms.