IMPHAL, Apr 18 (DIPR):The Rhythms of Manipur, Imphal’s ‘Henjunaha’ was premiered today at Manipur Jagoi Marup Golden Jubilee Stage, Lamboikhongnangkhong.
The play was sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India under Cultural Productions and Production Grant Scheme.
Information and Public Relations Director Meghachandra Kongbam, State member of NEZCC, Dimapur Nameirakpam Tiken Singh and Rhythms of Manipur president Manibabu Likmabam attended the event as the chief guest, guest of honour and president respectively.
Folk play ‘Henjunaha’ revolves around the love between Henjunaha and Lairourembi, a legend from Moirang Kangleirol. The story is about the strong bond of love that existed between Henjunaha and Lairourembi which was created by none other than supreme god Moirang Thangjing and goddess Koireleima.
According to director Goshe Meitei, the story of Henjunaha and Lairourembi is one of the greatest love stories of India.
Established in 1985, Rhythms of Manipur is not only an important centre of music and theatre in Manipur but also play a significant role in promoting both traditional and fusion arts.
Rhythms of Manipur has undertaken research works for the revival of rare performing art forms in the region. Some of the remarkable contributions of the group include Heirangkhoinida (based on Pena) in 1995, Moirang Sai Opera in 2002, Drums of Manipur in 2009 and Loktak in 2017.
Appreciating the role of Rhythms of Manipur in promoting art and music of the State, Meghachandra Kongbam said that the younger generations can learn new innovative elements of literature, music, costume designing and even choreography from folk play.
Nameirakpam Tiken Singh said that the aesthetic value of classical art draws its origin to the folk art and that it would be wrong to underestimate the indigenousness of folk art at present since it is the mother of all art forms.
Source: The Sangai Express
