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Our Correspondent
Imphal, Oct. 18 (EMN): Manipur Governor La Ganesan on Monday inaugurated the 49th All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival, 2020-21 at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, a play house in Imphal.
MLA Karam Shyam and many other dignitaries besides the public attended the inaugural function, which was organised by Manipur State Kala Akademi.
Speaking on the occasion, the state governor lauded the organisers and expressed his joy of learning the unique feature of Shumang Leela groups that are exclusively for male artistes, who play female roles with ease. He said that groups comprising only women have also come up and they have become prominent features in many festivals.
Stating that it is unfortunate how only 14 female groups will participate in the festival due to Covid-19 pandemic, he hoped that the present Shumang Leela festival will provide good opportunity for the performers to show their artistic talents to the audience and also standardise the present Manipur Shumang Leela.
The governor also shared his happiness over how the present day Sumang Leela is trying to focus on the issues of moral values, unity and integrity as well as brotherhood and friendship among various communities in the state.
‘Since the State is passing through difficult times, the need of the hour is to do away with issues, which blemish our aged- old peaceful co- existence and it is the responsibility of every citizen irrespective of caste, creed or religion to contribute their best their respective capacities with sincerity, discipline and confidence for ensuring peace in the state’, he added.
It may be mentioned that Shumang Leela is as popular as Jatra of Bengal, Tamasha of Maharashtra, Bhavi of Madhya Pradesh and Nautanki of Uttar Pradesh. It was initially held in the courtyard of residential houses. Over the years, it has become a powerful medium for mass education besides providing entertainment and relaxation. The immortal love story of Khamba and Thoibi in Manipur and other historical events related to Moirang were also conveniently used by Shumang Leelas in the style called ‘Moirang Parva’.
Meanwhile, during the function, 25 artistes were awarded best actors, supporting actors, best lyricist, best director, best script, and best productions in comic roles.