Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, October 21 2010:
A two-day international conference aimed at to find out the true character of "Laiharoaba" organized by the Umang Lai Kanba Lup (ULKL) began today at Iboyaima Shanglen, Palace Compound.
Speaking as chief guest in the opening function of the conference, Education Minister, L Jayentakumar appealed to the people not to treat "Laiharoaba" as only for entertainment terming it as an indispensable part of Meetei society.
Laiharaoba teaches the desired traits does and don't of men and women in society and is closely related with the very customs and tradition of Meetei society.
Even though, changes are inevitable in the society.
These changes should not choke the customs and traditions of the society, the minister said.
"We should all try to know the internal meaning of Laiharoaba.
We should work out a common rule agreeable to all which should be followed while performing Laiharaoba, Jayentakumar urged.
MLA Dr Kh Ratankumar who attended the function as guest of honour termed Laiharoaba as the mirror of the Meetei society stating that it is a living traditional art form of the state.
MLA Moirangthem Oken stressed the need of performing Laiharoaba under a common rule.
This will enable to preserve the common character of their cultural tradition art form.
For Heirok area of Thoubal district, Laiharaoba has been started with a common feature, he added.
The opening function was presided by chairman of the organizing committee of the conference Ng Kangjiya.
Meeteis coming from Assam, Bangladesh, etc are also taking part in the conference.