Governor kick starts 64th Foundation day celebration of Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Acacemy

Imphal, April 01, 2018 (DIPR): The 64^th Foundation Day of the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy kicked off at its open air auditorium today. Speaking as Chief Guest of the function, Hon’ble Governor Dr. Najma Heptulla expressed happiness over her participation as the Chairperson of the Academy and said that the Academy has successfully projected the beautiful culture and dances of Manipur to the rest of the country.

Terming Manipur as the powerhouse of various cultures & different forms of dance, drama, music and art forms, the Governor said that it is heartening to know that every year new courses are being added into the programmes of the Academy. Appreciating all the gurus of the Academy for their commendable work, she said that she will be delighted to witness the performances of the 5 gold-medallists and other artists.

Stating that she shares deep emotional attachment to the Sangeet Natak Academi which was created as a brainchild of his grandfather, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad , the first Minister of Education and Culture of the country. Three academies were created viz. Sangeet Natak Academi, Lalit Kala Academy & Sahitya Academy through which India has been able to project the very deep and ancestral heritage including sangeet & natak, music, performing arts, visual arts & literature, she further stated.

President of the function, Prof. Hijam Tombi said that Manipur is known all over the world for its rich cultural heritage. The unique feature of the traditional Manipuri dance is that it is based on spirituality with complicated rituals, techniques, principles and aesthetics, he also stated.

The cultural programme of the evening comprised of solo dances by the 5 gold medallists viz. Y Bebetombi Devi, Thangjam Chanchal Devi, Dayananda Kayenpaibam,Ningthoujam Illina & Rebindra Yengkhom. Lai Haraoba, Kabui Jagoi, Pung Cholom, Thang-ta, Mao Jagoi, Nata-Sankirtana and Vasanta Raas were also performed as part of the function. The foundation day celebration will be held for three days.