Governor vows to help artistes, develop JNMDA
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 29 2023: Governor Anusuiya Uikey has assured that she will help in further development of Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) and artistes in the state.

Speaking as chief guest of the certificate award ceremony of JNMDA held at the academy's open air theatre, here, on Saturday, the Governor noted that the North East, especially, Manipur has a unique culture.

If people look into the cultures, traditions, dances and attires, they can feel the difference, she said, adding that Manipuri music touches the heart and the nation is proud of it.

Appealing to the artistes and gurus for moving forward to develop the rich cultural legacies, the Governor said that the work being done by JNMDA for developing art and culture, especially dance, is praiseworthy and has special significance for artistes.

She assured of extending all possible help to the academy while calling JNMDA as one of the premier dance academies in the country.

She noted that since its inception, the academy has produced many eminent artistes, who are respected in the Manipuri cultural sphere.

The academy has been conducting courses in various dance forms of Manipur and its production unit has produced classy dance dramas widely acclaimed not only in the country but also internationally.

JNMDA will not only continue to strive for the best in Manipuri culture but also work on various issues related to it in the world of modern art and culture, she added.

The Governor further said that Manipuri dance has retained ritual practices that were prevalent in the region since time immemorial.

Dance and music symbolising joy and gaiety bear the imprint of its long social and cultural history and tradition.

Without the artistes and their dedication, the present generation might not be able to stay connected to their past and strong roots.

The endeavour should be to create a conducive environment for cultural traditions and practices to flourish while encouraging the youth to keep these skills and creativity alive and strong, she maintained.

The Governor handed over gold medals to three outstanding students of the academy during the ceremony and also witnessed a spectacular choreographic work titled 'Natambakta' presented by the artistes, gurus and students of the academy.

Chorus Repertory Theatre chairman and renowned theatre personality Ratan Thiyam and JNMDA director P Bilash also attended the ceremony.

Students, who passed different courses in the session 2022-23, were awarded with certificates.

Savita Ben Mehta Gold Medal and Khukhu Sarkar Gold Medal were awarded to Ningthoujam Anupama, Lourembam Tombi Gold Medal to Khumukcham Sandhya, and Rajyapal Gold Medal to Oinam Madanmohan.

A souvenir was also released as part of the ceremony.

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