IMPHAL, February 13: The 44th All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival kicked-off today at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen organised by Manipur State Kala Academi, Imphal. The festival will conclude on March 7.
Chief Secretary O Nabakishore attended as chief guest and Art and Culture commissioner K Radhakumar attended as president of the inaugural function. Altogether, 28 Shumang Leela groups including 17 female groups and 11 male groups will perform in the festival.
Addressing on the occasion, O Nabakishore lauded that the standard of Shumang Leela has been improve in the field of dance, music and production from the past recent years. He was happy for more women groups participate in the festival.
Radhakumar observed that in the past Shumang Leela was simply play courtyard but now it has been transformed and our law and order situations also reflects in the Shumang Leela.