Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, September 25 2009:
The 8th State Level Patriotic Song Competition was held today to commemorate the 58th Death Annivrsary of Jananeta Hijam Irawat at GM Hall here under the aegis of Students' Federation of India (SFI), Manipur State Committee.
The inaugural programme of the song competition was graced by eminent musicology and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee, Laishram Birendrakumar as the chief guest.
Vice-president of SFI (MSC) Zakir was the president while the guests of honour were renowned artist Chongtham (O) Sanatombi, noted artist Gurumayum Shyamkanhai Sharma and senior lecturer of SSBM, Government Music College Laimayum Debendrajit.
Speaking on the occasion, Birendrakumar highlighted the notable contributions of Irabot in writing Manipuri folk songs and even the Kabui folk songs.
He observed that Manipuri people were fast ahead in singing patriotic songs among the Indian counterparts.
He substantiated his statement by saying that the patriotic songs of the Manipuris were introduced in the Laiharaoba songs.
He said, the patriotism elements were transmitted through folk song.
He cited the example of Khongjom Parba, where the events of Khongjom war have been transmitted through folk songs from generation to generations.
SFI president Zakir said the song competition has been organised to cherish the footsteps of Irawat and to bring lasting peace through such competition.
He said the lyrics are given more weightage than the music.
A total of 75 competitors � 50 in junior category A (from Class I to X) and 25 in senior category B (Class X above) � have registered their names for the competition.
The competition will continue till tomorrow.