IMPHAL, April 1: The Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy celebrated its 62nd Foundation Day at its open air theatre here today evening.
Deputy Chief Minister of the State, Gaikhangam was the chief guest of the inaugural function.
Speaking on the function, Gaikhangam maintained that Rajashree Bheigyachandra, the then king of Manipur was one of the outstanding integrationist, who dwelled in every nook and corner of the state.
“He mixed up very well with the people inhabiting in the hills and the plain freely like a true guardian. Not like today’s so called advocates of integration, who are good in preaching only but not in deeds”, he said.
Gaikhangam continued that Bheigyachandra was far ahead of his time, who not only dreamt but also worked for the cultural and emotional integration of the land. “The JNMDA, which has established itself as one of the leading cultural institute in the Northeast part of India has been because of the cultural path paved by the then King. No doubt, one must also be thankful to the gurus and the artists who have contributed in the formative days of the Academy as well. But due credit must be given to Bheigyachandra”, he said.
Gaikhangam continued that JNMDA is a cultural institute which is in a way a confluence of the classic and the contemporary art forms. “The institute is a symbol of integration wherein we have music and dance forms of different communities being taught and practiced”, he added.
He also stressed that Manipuri society is unique because of its egalitarian values and practices. “There is not much difference between the haves and have-nots. We will not find such uniqueness in other parts of the country such as the advanced metropolitan cities where you find people begging for alms”, he said.
The inaugural function was presided by Prof H Tombi Singh, Vice Chairman, JNMDA. KK Mittal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Culture, government of India was the guest of honour. It may be mentioned that the Foundation Day Celebration will be conducted for three days. Dance, Lai Haraoba performance, Pung Cholom, Thang-Ta, Holi Pala, Mao Jagoi, Nat Sankirtan and Vasanta Rass performance were performed by various artistes, with the venue shifted to the Auditorium of the Production Unit of JNMDA on day one.
It will be followed by Wari Liba, Lairik Thiba and Khunung Eshei on the second day. Nupi and Nupa Bashok will be showed on the concluding day.