State observes 'Sankirtana Day'

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Dec 4: Manipur University of Culture (MUC) organised 'Sankirtana Day' at New Light Public School, Canchipur today.
The programme was attended by MP Leishemba Sanajaoba; Professor Paonam Gunindro, vice-chancellor MUC; Laishram Radhakanta Singh, registrar, MUC; Dr Thounaojam Khomdon Singh, librarian, MUC; Laimayum Devendrajit Sharma, Manipur State Kala Akademi awardee and exam coordinator, MUC and Dr Lourembam Surjit Singh, deputy registrar, MUC as presidium members.
Speaking at the programme, MP Leishemba Sanajaoba said 'We should look after the changing face of Sankirtana which some people have started commercialising this important art form and veered away from its important spiritual aspects.'
Understanding the importance of Nata Sankirtana, UNESCO had honoured this important art form of the State as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity in December 4, 2013, he added. Albeit the theme of Nata Sankirtana being borrowed from other States, the elements that characterised the Nata Sankirtana are very different from other forms of 'kirtana' found in other states of the country. The elements including the costumes, the movement and vigour involved in the Nata Sankirtana are a mixed of elements borrowed from traditional art forms of the state including 'Khulang Eshei', 'Khunung Eshei', 'Lai Haraoba' and 'Thang-Taa'. Such traditional elements were mixed with the theme borrowed from other States to make it more suitable to the State during the reign of King Rajarshi Bhagyachandra, Leishemba Sanajaoba added.
The MP added that we should remember the contribution of King Rajarshi Bhagyachandra during the observation of 'Sankirtana Day' and work together to preserve this art form. He also expressed a desire to have the elements of Nata Sankirtana from the living 'Gurus' documented by MUC for the coming generations.
Leishemba Sanajaoba added that he also sought the attention of the Parliament to upgrade MUC to a Central University so that the University can function properly. Currently MUC is suffering due to shortage of funds and staff, he added.
Similar programmes were also organised by the 8th International Sankirtana Day Celebration Committee at JN Manipur Dance Academy and  jointly by ISKCON Manipur, BISS Manipur and IIPA Manipur at court hall, Manipur University.
Also Cultural Workers and Activists Forum (CAWF), Manipur also organised Sankirtana Day at the office of Kanglei Saktam Langba Kanglup today.