Nata Sankirtana among dying art forms: JNMDA Dir
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, September 28 2021: Nata Sankirtana, which has been recognised as one of the intangible cultural heritages by the UNESCO, is among the dying art forms of the state, according to Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) Imphal director (in-charge) P Bilash.

Delivering the presidential address during the inaugural function of a three-day Festival of Dance and Music - Nata Sankirtana' organised by the Academy on Tuesday, Bilash said that there are several art forms that originated from the state but many of them have become almost extinct today as the new generation are not enthusiastic in preserving the Manipuri forefathers' gifts.

At the same time, many art forms are on the way to gradual extinction and one of them is Nata Sankirtana, he said.

This art form, which is a combination of dance, music and Pung (drum), gets its place in the list of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage.

Though it was proud moment for the state and the art form as well, but there are many more to do to keep this art form alive, he said and noted that there was no dearth of students for Nata Sankirtana in the recent past.

However, number of students is decreasing day by day today and it is a testimony of the dying state of the art form.

There is the constant need to promote the art form and keep it alive, he added.

Agriculture minister Oinam Lukhoi, who attended the inaugural function as chief guest, also spoke on the state's place in art and culture, and stressed the need for youth to proactively work for promoting the various art forms of the state.

Stating that Manipur is known to India and the world as well for its rich culture and traditions inherited from the forefathers and excellence by the contemporary sportspersons, he called upon all sections of the society to contribute their mite towards preserving and promoting art and culture of Manipur.

The government is monitoring for income and employment generation for the unemployed youths and taking up many schemes including 'start up', the minister maintained and assured to consult with the chief minister for saving and enriching Nata Sankirtana.

Artistes from different organisations of Nata Sankirtana, students of JNMDA, gurus and many eminent personalities also attended the function.

On the first day, students of JNMDA presented Nata Sankirtana (Sheihou) followed by performance of 'Sheisin' by artistes of Prachaya Nata Sankirtana Samaj; Khurai Thangjam Leikai.

It may be mentioned that Nata Sankirtana is a performance based on tales of lord Krishna.

It follows an extremely strict code in its performance with rhythms pattern as well as costumes determined by specific rules and regulation.

It is performed to mark important occasions during a person's life, from birth to death.

Manipur Nata Sankirtana was granted recognition as an intangible cultural heritage by the UNESCO in 2013.On the second day, Public Theatre Artiste Association, Phoijing, Nambol will perform Nata Sankirtana (Sheihou) and Indra Kala Bhavan, Moirang Thoya Leikai, Moirang will present Nata Sankirtana (Sheisin), while the concluding day of the festival will feature presentations by artistes of Nata Sangeet Academy and Research Centre, Yaiskul Janmasthan and Guru Gulapi Nata Sankirtana Academy, Kwakeithel Nganappithong, Imphal.

JNMDA former director Dilip Mayengbam (national awardee) and JNMDA former pradhan Guru S Thanil (Padmashree) were also present as guests of honour of the function held at the JNMDA mandal.

The festival is part of the calendar event of the Academy.

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