IMPHAL, Jan 13 : A seminar on performing arts and reception function of the Manipur Levy 2008 peace march was held today at the Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen in Imphal. The programme was organized by the Manipur State Shumang Leela Council.
Several dignitaries, theatre artistes and people from the neighbouring states were present at the reception function of the Manipur diaspora held today.
State chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh said on the occasion that the Manipur Levy 2008 would bring all those Manipuris back who had scattered at the time of seven years devastation to Assam, Hojai, Karbi Anglong, Cachar and Tripura.
Continuing further, he said that it was very fortunate for him to see all the Manipuris from the neighbouring states. At the time of the arrival of the Manipur Levy 2008, he had arranged a reception at the Kangla but he could not be present as he had to reach Delhi for an important meeting.
Even tomorrow (January 12) he would be leaving for New Delhi for a Cabinet meeting and he was really happy to meet all the Manipuris today, he said. He also offered all support from the government`s side if there was anything to be done in Silchar, Cachar etc. while promising to send a representative if there was need.
While thanking the organizing committee and especially RK Ranendrajit, chairman and O Churamani, retired principal GC College, he said that the next venue should be Rangoon, Mandalay or Bangladesh so that there could be larger participation.
He also observed that the state should not depend on others as in earlier times when it was ruled by the Meitei kings. "Our originality lies with Kangla. Not only Kangla we need to preserve the Shahid Minar, Bir Tikendrajit etc. so that the people know that ours was a princely state," he added.
N Biren, flood control, irrigation and sports minister informed the gathering that the peace marchers of the Manipuri diaspora will meet at Manipur University tomorrow.
Chief guest of the function, Ph Parijat, minister for health said that the performing arts could make the people cry or laugh because of its intrinsic values while informing that a discussion on the topic of Manipur diaspora was also scheduled to held on January 12.
Dr. M Nara, former minister said that a week-long program will also be organized by the Shumang Leela Committee and the venue for the programme was likely to be decided by the public and could be at Silchar or in Assam.
Renowned theatre personality Ratan Thiyam said in his speech that theatre played a big role while mentioning the significance of proscenium theatre which was closely related to the culture and traditions of the state.
The first emphasis should be on the traditions as without it we could not survive. It is not something which was meant only for the museums, he added.