Imphal: Chief Minister N. Biren Singh attended the Award Presentation of 21st Shumang Leela Ningtham Kumhei, 2024-2025 and presentation of “3rd May” (Shumang Leela Play) held at Th. Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Imphal today. The programme was organised by the Manipur State Shumang Leela Council.
Addressing the gathering, Biren Singh appreciated the contributions made by artistes to the society during these difficult times in the State.
The Chief Minister maintained that the State Government had always been providing support to artistes of the State. He continued that Ratan Thiyam was honoured with the Life Time Achievement Award acknowledging his contribution in the field of art and culture during the celebration of the 54th Statehood Day, 2025.
N. Biren Singh further recalled the role played by Shumang Leela artistes during the COVID-19 pandemic by creating mass awareness. He continued that people were earlier reluctant to vaccinate themselves. During that time, he consulted popular artistes for organising street plays to create awareness on the importance of taking vaccination, he added.
The Chief Minister further stated that many people are still unaware of the root cause of the present unprecedented crisis and often carried away by emotions. He expressed hopefulness that through the medium of shumang leela, the public could be made aware of the core issues of the present crisis.
N. Biren Singh informed that the government had already allocated an amount of around Rs. 2.5 crore for the upgradation of the Th. Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen to the modern standard.
Ratan Thiyam, a renowned Indian Playwright and theatre director, praised the government for taking welfare initiatives to support the artistes of the State. He added, the tourism sector of the State will play a crucial role in the process of cultural integration to showcase unity in diversity, he said.
During the function, the Chief Minister presented awards to Okram Kunjo, Nabadwip Ningthouja, K. Devan Sharma, Thokchom Ramani Devi, Purnimashi Leima, Keisham Tomba Meitei, Khunjamayum Dhakeshwar, James Heikrujam, Ayekpam Inakhunba among others.
The programme was attended by Water Resources Minister Awangbow Newmai, CAF and PD Minister Leishangthem Susindro Meitei, Veterinary Minister Kashim Vashum, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba, MLA Phungyar AC Leishiyo Keishing, MLA Lamsang AC Sorokhaibam Rajen Singh and renowned artistes of the State among others.
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