Tales of State animal, flower and bird told in rhythm
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 30 2022: Artistes of Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) performed a dance whose choreography was inspired by the beauty of State animal Sangai, State bird Nongin and State flower Shirui Lily on the last day of 10-day Sangai Festival at Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre (BOAT) at Palace Compound, today.

The dance performance christened Natambakta was choreographed by senior artistes of JNMDA G Chandan Devi and O Jiten Singh.

The dance narrated how the universe and all life forms were created by the creator.

In the first scene, the dancers showcased how Pudangkoi of Luwang clan was transformed to Sangai as per the orchestration of Ema Emoinu while in the second scene the performers portrayed State bird Nongin dancing in front of the offspring of Pundongkoi in a well balanced act.

The first and second scene of the performance alone mesmerised the audience with breathtaking dance moves coupled with delightful formation.

In the third scene, the dancers depicted how the Sangais used to run freely in hilly region (now districts) of Manipur in the ancient period and their stay at Mao in Senapati district and it led to the opening of the 4th scene which drew the picture of State flower Shirui Lily blooming on Shirui Hills.

The fifth scene of the performance depicted a group of Sangais watching a kit lam performance of Kabui tribe while in the sixth scene the dancers illustrated how one Meetei man coming to Kongba village was stunned by the beauty of Sangais which were there.

After a series of scenes which included Thang-Ta performance, Lai Haraoba dance, Pung Cholom, the last scene of the dance performance showcased the Sangais being mistreated and the State animal pleading for freedom.

The dance was performed by 71 male artistes, 82 female artistes and one child artiste.

Unfortunately, one of the Thang-Ta artistes Thongam George from Sanjenbam who took part in the full-rehearsal died in a road tragedy while returning home at around 11 pm yesterday.

The artistes led by JNMDA Pukhrambam Bilash Singh offered condolence to the family of George and observed silence for two minutes in his honour.

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