Seminar highlights need to promote Shumang Leela
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 21 2024: A four-day seminar on Shumang Leela, organised by the Manipur State Kala Akademi, began on Saturday at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound, Imphal.

The seminar aims to preserve and promote this traditional theatre art form, which holds significant social and historical value.

Art and culture commis sioner M Joy, speaking as the chief guest, emphasised the importance of preserving Shumang Leela, calling it a "mirror of society" that reflects social behaviour, conveys messages, and imparts moral values.

He highlighted how the integration of music into the art form has added a new dimension, making it both entertaining and enlightening.

He praised the Manipur State Kala Akademi for organising the seminar and documenting the papers presented, describing the effort as a valuable resource for the future.

Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Y Rajendra proposed compiling and publishing the papers presented during the seminar in consultation with experts in the field.

He also suggested including Shumang Leela in the curriculum of the Manipur University of Culture to further its promotion.

On the first day, Premi Wahengbam presented a paper on "The History of Shumang Leela", while Ph Gunachandra spoke on "Norms and Traditions of Shumang Leela".

The afternoon session featured presentations by S Muktab-ali Leima and L Dorendro on "Moirang Parva Tradition of Shumang Leela" .

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