IMPHAL, Dec 17: The 9th Shumang Leela Ningtham Kumei 2012 commenced today at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound organized by Manipur State Shumang Leela Council.
The inaugural function was attended by Works Minister, Dr Kh Ratankumar Singh, Naoriya Pakhanglakpa Assembly Constituency MLA, RK Anand Singh and Manipur State Shumang Leela Council advisor, L Tarapon Singh as chief guest, guest of honour and president respectively.
Works Minister Ratankumar, speaking at the function, said that ‘Shumang Leela’ is an art form which can be staged anywhere with ease. This art form can carry massages, moral lessons etc to the general public easily.
He further said that he regret to learnt that this Shumang Leela festival have not received any assistance from the government and added that he will pursue the matter to the Chief Minister.
MLA RK Anand, speaking at the function, informed that all the Shumang Leelas’ which will be staged this year in the festival will be based on the history of Manipur and its traditions.
The festival will help in educating the general public of Manipur about their history and their unique cultures, which will again help in bring love and unity among the various communities of the state, Anand added.