Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 06:
The 35th All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival, 2007 has begun from today at Th Iboyaima Shumang Leela Sanglen at Palace Compound.
Art & Culture Minister Ph Parijat and noted theatre personality H Kanhailal attended the inaugural function of the festival as chief guest and president respectively.
Artistes who won awards in the last edition of the festival were felicitated at the occasion.
In all 28 Shumang Leela groups including 17 female groups and 11 male groups would be taking part in the festival this time which would go on till April 29. Speaking at the inaugural function, Parijat described Shumang Leela is a performing art form which served as a powerful communication medium with the people so much so that the mistakes of the Government can be corrected through this medium.
In his presidential address, theatre personality Kanhailal said Shumang Leela can established close relationship with the people.
Director of Art and Culture L Sorojini who graced the function as guest of honour also spoke at the occasion.
The play Nungshibagee Khudol of Sanaleipak Nachom Artistes' Association was performed on the first day of the inaugural function of the festival.