IMPHAL, December 7: `It is unfortunate that there is not a single cultural study centre in Manipur, though the place is famous for its richness in culture. I feel sad that the present generation as well the authorities concerned are not showing keen interest in cultural studies`.
This was stated by Aribam Syam Sharma, noted film maker while delivering a talk today, aimed at creating awareness of the importance of art & culture, organised by the Dynamic Manipur at Hotel Imphal, North AOC. Today`™s programme was the 5th episode of a series of talks.
Continuing his deliberation, the octogenarian film maker said that the fate of Manipur`™s rich cultural heritage is gloomy in the present juncture of globalisation, and it cannot sustain and grow by itself without serious effort into its studies at the university level. He lamented that Manipur University do not have a cultural studies department, which is badly needed. He said in other parts of the world, universities have cultural studies centres.
Further emphasising that performing arts like Pena, Khongjom Parva and the ritual performances of Lai Haraoba, including Nat Sankirtan and Ras Lila are nowhere to be found in other parts of the world, he said it is the duty of the younger generation to enrich it further by studying them.
He maintained that it is unfortunate that art forms have been quantified into `marketable products`™ and cautioned that it should not be reduced into `cheap entertainment`™. He also narrated his long journey of associating with music, theatre and films to the audience, followed by an interaction session.
The second speaker of the day was Lin Laishram, who shared her modelling experience. She said `I feel most beautiful when I am strong and confident`, admitting that it was sheer luck that she got into the world of modelling. There is always a need to perspire if we want to achieve good things in life, she said.
Lin continued that she is actively engaged in theatre, besides modelling and acting in films. She said she is a qualified Yoga instructor who loves to engage in physical activities.
The last speaker was film maker, Oinam Doren, who has participated in several International Film Festivals with his award winning film, `The Songs of Mashangvah`™.
Doren claimed that the local media has shadowed him till date and today is his first invitation to speak in his home town. He candidly shared his transition from a shy and quiet introvert, testing his creativity in various mediums till he settled as a film maker.
`I have experience the glamour world, living in 7star hotels, luxury cars and mingling with famous people. But my inner artistic calling was different`, he said.
He shared about collecting scribe writing materials from libraries and self-learning struggles, inspirational readings and ultimately the bliss and happiness of being an artist. He said film making is an addiction and he has several ongoing projects at present as he juggles between his travels.
`I am still young and have big dreams. Film is a blending of so many aspects. Creativity is a process; I want to make more feature films and musical films. I hope to travel to every cities of the world with my film`, he added.