IMPHAL, April 12: Ayekpam Inakhunba who played the role of Devdas was conferred with the Iboyaima Shumang Leela Award 2013 on the occasion of Shumang Leela Day organized by the Manipur State Shumang Leela Council (MSSLC) at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound here today. The said award consists of a citation and an amount of Rs 10,000.
Speaking at the occasion Gaikhangam, Deputy Chief Minister said the role played by shumang leela in the society is very effective and has large impact. The contribution of shumang leela artistes is required for a better and healthy society, he said.
“Shumang leela is a wonderful art form and has a unique speciality. When this art form is nurtured a new, progressive and healthy society will follow,” he added and donated Rs 50,000 to MSSLC expressing his desire for the development of shumang leela.
The occasion was presided over by K Ranjit Singh, MLA Sugnu A/C and Advisor MSSLC; and attended by Dr M Nara, Ex Minister and Advisor MSSLC as Guest of honour.
During the occasion, Dr M Nara said a cultural policy of Manipur was approved by him during his tenure as a Minister of Arts and Culture which is still awaiting approval of the cabinet.
Many other states borrowed the concept from us and adopted the cultural policy. The government is appealed to announce it sooner, he continued.
Giving the presidential address at the occasion K Ranjit Singh said shumang leela conveys a large message to the people and hold a big responsibility in bringing a change to the society. An appointment with the Chief Minister will be sought to discuss about the cultural policy, he assured.
He expressed his belief that an annual budget for shumang leela would be set aside and donated Rs 20,000 to MSSLC for the welfare of shumang leela.
Earlier during the day, as a part of the observance of Shumang Leela Day, an academic session of shumang leela was conducted which was attended by H Dilip Singh, IAS, Director Education (S); Ibotombi Haorokcham, Theatre Scholar; and P Dhanakumar Singh, IPS, Chairman Board of Secondary Education Manipur as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.
During the session, Narendra Ningomba, Advisor MSSLC said it will be worthwhile if shumang leela is included in the syllabus.
“I would like to support the proposal of MSSLC to include shumang leela in the syllabus which will benefit the future generation and the society”, he said.
At the occasion, P Dhanakumar said that if shumang leela is not included in the syllabus it will go extinct. I will look into the matter and think of including shumang leela as a chapter in Social Science subject.
H Dilip Singh said lots of interaction will be required to include shumang leela in the syllabus. To give it an academic orientation many experts will be required, he added.