51st All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival kicks off

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Feb 10: The 51st All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival 2022-23 kicked off today at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen.
The festival is being organised by the Manipur State Kala Akademi.
The inaugural function was graced by Dr Y Radheshyam Singh, MLA Hiyanglam Assembly Constituency as the chief guest and M Joy Singh, Art and Culture Commissioner as the president.
The winners of various categories of 50th All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival were honoured with prizes during the programme.
The best play winner of last year, 'Wakhal Irolba' of Sanaleibak Nachom Artistes was performed as a special play today.
13 shumang leela each from male and female category will compete in this year's festival.
Speaking as the chief guest, Dr Y Radheshyam Singh expressed that Manipur is well known for its rich heritage of art and culture.
Owing to the sincere efforts and immense contributions of the performing artistes, teachers, experts etc, the State has been able to gain an esteem spot in the field of art and culture, he added.
The MLA while lauding the role of Manipur State Kala Akademi in the promotion of various artforms in the State expressed concern over lack of infrastructure and funds for effective functioning of this autonomous body.
In view of the above, he assured to raise the issues of the body to the State Government and authorities concerned.
Highlighting that Shumang Leela is a powerful medium of  performing arts to reflect upon societal issues, M Joy Singh appealed to all the artistes to present their best performances.