Shumang Leela Day observed
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 12 2011:
The 10th Shumang Leela Day cum presentation of Thokchom Iboyaima Award for 2011 was held under the aegis of Manipur State Shumang Leela Council (MSSLC) at the auditorium of Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound here today.
Participating in the function as chief guest, Ambassador of Cuba in India Miguel Angel Ramirez Ramos said that there is an art form similar to the Shumang Leela of Manipur in Cuba and it played a major role in bringing about a revolution in Cuba.
April 12 every year is being observed as Shumang Leela Day in Manipur with the sole objective of promoting this traditional performing art form of Manipur.
The main highlight of the observance is showing respect to the departed artistes of this art form and presentation of gifts to their family members.
Some of the important personalities who have contributed their mite towards construction of the Shumang Leela Shanglen were also honoured at the occasion, during which the Thokchom Iboyaima Award for 2011 was presented by the chief guest to Shumang Leela activist Laishram Jugeshwor Singh, who was not only an artiste but also a mentor at one time.
The Award includes a cash reward of Rs 10,000 .
Speaking as chief guest of the function, Ambassador of Cuba to India Miguel Angel Ramirez Ramos informed the gathering that Cuba also has an art form similar to the Shumang Leela of Manipur and it had played a pivotal role in bringing about a resolution in Cuba.
So, Shumang Leela could also help in bringing about social transformation in Manipur.
With the help of that art form, Cuban women and other illiterate people were educated.
Now there is no one who is illiterate in Cuba, Ramos added.
He went on to say that during the 52-year long economic blockade imposition on Cuba by America, Cubans suffered a lot.
But Cubans never like to make enemy with anyone.
Ramos said that he would definitely relay the message of Shumang Leela of Manipur to the people of Cuba.
Appreciating the supremacy of Manipuri sportspersons not only at the National level competition but also at the International arena, Ramos observed that Manipur can be regarded as the Cuba of India.
In Cuba, many Indian boxing coaches are currently undergoing training.
Among them, there are Manipuris, informed, adding that in January this year alone, 50 Indian coaches have come to Cuba for training and more are expected to come in future, he added.
Presided over by president of MSSLC Ph Gunachandra Sharma, the function was also attended by Rosa Margarita Alvarez Casanova, wife of Ramos; MLA Usham Deben and chief advisor of MSSLC Dr M Nara as guests of honour.
As part of the observance, artistes of Imphal Jatra Association presented the play 'Election' much to the delight of the two foreign visitor couple and other audience.