Guru Kulla Cultural Academy celebrates 18th Foundation Day
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 22 2026: The 18th Foundation Day of Guru Kulla Cultural Academy, Khurai Kongpal Saj or Leikai was celebrated along with the premiere of its new production "Dhol Gi Sathek" at the auditorium of JN Manipur Dance Academy, Imphal today.

The programme began with floral tributes to the late Gurus of the academy.

The Guru Kulla Memorial Award 2026 was also presented to Pung Guru Lairenlakpam Yaima Singh of Sagolband and Eshei Guru Laishram Rabei Singh of Konjeng Lamdong Leikai.

The award carries a lengyan, citation and cash.

Rajya Sabha MP A Sharda Devi, Guru Kulla Cultural Academy president M Gunindro Singh and Pradhan Guru of JNMDA Th Sudhir Singh attended the function as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.

Speaking on the occasion, Sharda Devi said culture is an asset that must be carried forward to the future.

Culture is not just about entertainment, it has many roles to play, she said, adding that culture reminds us of the love that binds us.

What politics fails to unite, culture can unite, she said.

She noted that the State is passing through a very challenging phase, where apart from the wounds of conflict, mistrust and displacement have badly affected many families, localities and especially children.

In such a situation, culture has a greater responsibility to shoulder.

Culture will define our identity and act as a shield to build a peaceful future, she said.

Lauding the academy, she said it has been providing a big platform for the younger generation to learn and understand their roots.

Our cultural institutions are not merely centres for imparting skills to children, but centres that instil discipline, respect and responsibility, she added.

Th Sudhir Singh said it is very encouraging to see children entering the field of culture.

He stressed the need for cultural organisations to come together and organise seminars to attract more youth to the field.

Sankirtana is an inseparable part of our life from birth to death, he said and stressed the need to give an impetus to the art form.

Child artistes of the academy also presented Pung Cholom, solo dance, Manipuri classical solo dance and others at the function.

Comment