IMPHAL May 14: `We should collectively denounce the criminal act of killing two innocent Labourers and the brutal assault on a minor.
However it will be wrong to perceive the crime in a communal colour for the sake of few culprits who belong to certain communities.
The criminals will be awarded the lawful penalty whether it is life in imprisonment or death penalty. But it is unfortunate that we have targeted the religious identity and burnt a Church.
We should abstain from such actions that can incite communal tone` the Chief Minister said speaking at the award presentation ceremony of `Jewel of Manipuri Cinema`™ to Padmashri Aribam Syam Sharma at Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS).
The ceremony was organized by the Film Forum Manipur(FFM) in association with MSFDS.
Padmashri Aribam Syam Sharma was awarded the `Jewel of Manipuri Cinema`™ by the Film Forum Manipur which includes a cash prize of Rs one lakh and one thousand, a citation and a memento. The Chief Minister who is also the chief guest of the function warmly adorned a Kokyet on the Awardee.
`Aribam Syam Sharma is truly deserving of `Jewel of Manipuri Cinema 2015`™ title for his outstanding contribution to Manipuri Cinema. In fact it is a delayed recognition for his remarkable work.
His contribution which is nationally and internationally proclaimed has been a pride for all of us.`™ he said.
He continued, such rare great art production have made our state visible to the world. Hence today we are known and recognized for our art and cultural excellence.
The Film Forum Manipur has excelled without any support from the government till date. Despite various struggle, energetic creativity has led to explosion in the field. Film has immensely contributed to social change with underlying social message to the public.
We hope the Information and Broadcasting Ministry would acknowledge the progress of Manipuri film and set up a film institute. We have qualified for the eligibility and awaits hopefully. However even if this centre support fails, we will collective explore alternative options along with our veteran experts to create our own film city, the Chief Minister assured.
Aribam Syam Sharma after receiving the award said in humility, `I accept this award on behalf of all those who contributed and adore Manipuri cinema through its 43 years of struggle`™.
He continued, Manipur holds much potential for creative exhibition in various arts with rich heritage in art and culture aesthetics. This dynamic art form is constantly enriched by fresh artist with modern adaptations. Such fusion is visible in Pena based songs, Khongjom Parva patriotic songs and matamgi esheis.
Amazing creation and additions in dance has given a new era.
Leiharaoba dance is a perfect blend of dance and song composed of organic creation theories. Such detail narration of human genesis in performing art is unique to us. New addition of creativity continues to improve this art form to modern adaptation, he added.
Theatre is a late entry for our state. Yet new traditional organic façade of Manipur theory has added a new perspective to this art form.
In cinema, Manipur has been aggressively progressive since inception despite lack of professional training. In 43 years of Manipur cinema, we are able to establish a distinct definite identity in the field, he said.
Recalling his work and his experiences he said, I use English and Meitei Mayek in all my films and it has aroused the curiosity of the foreign viewers several times. People have also told me that Meiteilon is melodious.
Film is a medium to showcase our identity and rich cultural legacy to the outside world. I have tried to be explorative. For instance my documentary `Jagoi`™ was without a single commendatory. I feel that the dance can potray itself without the intruding commendatory, he said.
Emagi Ningthem was received well in the West. And despite the black and white cast, the actress was complimented for her beauty in Newyork. Ishanou is the only film from North east till date to be shown in the prestigious Cannes Festival in France. It receives much positive feedback about refreshing new perspective, he said.
Padmashri Aribam Syam Sharma donated his cash award of Rs one lakh and one thousand for establishing a Trust Fund for the welfare of senior artist and technicians in the film sector.
Laimayum Surjakanta, Chairman, FFM; Kangjam Radhakumar Singh, IAS, Secretary, Art & Culture, GoM and Dr. K. Sushila Devi, Secretary, MSFDS were also present in the function. A compilation of Padmashri Aribam Syam Sharma`™s work in a booklet form titled `Jewel of Manipuri Cinema 2015`™ was also released by the Chief Minister along with the dignitaries on the dais. The award winning film `ISHANOU`™ was also screen on the occasion.