IMPHAL, February 18: Manipur Dramatic Union, MDU has observed Artiste’s Day at its auditorium today and presented award titled ‘Khomdram Dhanachandra Ningshing Mana’ to Heisnam Sabitri, Padmashree honouring her outstanding performances as a theatre artist.
The award which was sponsored by the family of Khomdram Dhanachandra, founder president of MDU, included a sum of Rs 10,000, citation, shawl and a walking stick.
After floral tribute being paid to the departed artistes, Awardees (National and State) namely Heisnam Kanhailal, Padmashree, National Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellow – 2011 and Kamalkumari National Award – 2012; and Ranbir Mangang, Manipur State Kala Akademi Award (Theatre) – 2011 were felicitated with citation and shawl.
“Today is a joyous moment for me however I feel that I do not deserve the award. I pray that every artist find success in their endeavours”, Sabitri said.
During the occasion, Heisnam Kanhailal briefed about his life history and what theatre means to him.
He also recalled some of his famed plays.
“During the 70s, I could not speak anything about theatre. It was from the 80s that I started learning about theatre and I could articulate my desire”, he said.
He then said that young research scholars from JNU and others have approached him for their PHDs and to seek a new incarnation of acting.
“Also actors from South Africa will be coming to learn from him for three months”, he said.
The observance was presided over by Kshetrimayum Ibohal Singh, president MDU and attended by Elangbam Joychandra Singh, Sangeet Natak Akademy Awardee as chief guest.
Joychandra briefed about the times he had with Khomdram Dhanachandra and prayed that the observation might satisfy the soul of the later.
