Governor lauds JNMDA for enriching India's diverse culture
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, November 24 2021: Governor La Ganesan inaugurated a three-day festival of Manipuri Dance & Music at India Peace Memorial, Maibamlotpa Ching, Nambol under Bishnupur district on Wednesday.

The festival is organised by Jawa-harlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, Imphal to commemorate the 223rd Death Anniversary of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra as a part of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' celebration of 75years of India's Independence.

Speaking at the inaugural function as chief guest, La Ganesan expressed his happiness to learn that Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, first constituent Unit of Sangeet NatakA-kademi, New Delhi established in 1954 has been making relentless efforts as the apex body in the field of performing arts in the country in general and the state in particular, preserving and promoting the vast intangible heritage of India's diverse culture in the form of music, dance and drama.

The Governor also lauded JNMDA for organising the festival at a sacred place of Japanese War Memorial.

"Manipur is well-known for its rich cultural heritage not only in the country but overseas.

Manipur is almost synonymous with dances and music.

Dancing for the sake of dancing was almost unknown here," he noted.

Ganesan also pointed out dances of the state signify the changing of seasons and the objective is devotional.

He acknowledged that artistes from the state have performed in more than thousand shows in the country and abroad and have been bestowed with commendation and recognition in various foreign countries.

The Governor further observed that organising such a festival will help in enhancing the popularity of Manipuri dance and music and expressed strong belief that during the festival many renowned gurus of the state will exchange their valuable views for promoting the diverse cultural activities of the country in general and the state in particular.

In his address, Heirok MLA Th Radheshyam said India has diverse population and a magnificent culture.

He also highlighted that Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration is an initiative of the government and has achieved the goal to a great extent.

He also stressed on the importance of learning Sanskrit stating that many people in western countries are interested in Sanskrit because of its sacredness and importance.

The MLA maintained that Sanskrit has the ability to overcome Artificial Intelligence which is about to rule the world.

He further added that we are trying to expand our civilization through our art and culture compare.

Former JNMDA director Dilip Mayengbam, while recounting various programmes organised by JNMDA, said that showcasing Maha Dhumen at a historical place is a bold step taken up by JNMDA.

Maha Dhumen, particularly organised by kings or his ministers only at the Palace, is performed by 14 pung artistes and 64 palas (singers of Nata Sankirtana) and continues for 24 hours.

This particular form of Nata Sankirtana is a very elaborate performance of all the essential elements of Nata Sankirtana.

The Vaishnavs firmly believe that offerings of Maha Dhumen will bring welfare of all living beings including human beings and universal peace in this world.

The first day of the festival was marked by presentation of Nata Sankirtana by Nupa Pala and Maha Raas by the gurus and students of JNMDA, Imphal.

On the second and third day of the festival Astakal Sheishak will be presented by Dhumen Pung Group.

The inaugural function was attended by JNMDA director P Bilash Singh, distinguished personalities in the field of dance and music, staff and students of JNMDA among others.

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