Imphal, 24th January 2025 (DIPR): Chief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh attended the Award Presentation of the 21st Shumang Leela Ningtham Kumhei, 2024-2025, and the 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, Shri N. Biren Singh appreciated the contributions made by artistes to 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 Shri Ratan Thiyam was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award acknowledging his contribution to the field of art and culture during the celebration of the 54th Statehood Day, 2025.
Shri 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 about the importance of vaccination, he added.
The Chief Minister further stated that many people are still unaware of the root causes of the present unprecedented crisis and are often carried away by emotions. He expressed hope that through the medium of Shumang Leela, the public could be made aware of the core issues of the present crisis.
Shri N. Biren Singh informed that the government had already allocated an amount of around Rs. 2.5 crore for the upgradation of Th. Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen to modern standards.
Shri 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 that the tourism sector of the State will play a crucial role in the process of cultural integration to showcase unity in diversity.
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 Shri Awangbow Newmai, CAF and PD Minister Shri Leishangthem Susindro Meitei, Veterinary Minister Shri Kashim Vashum, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba, MLA Phungyar AC Shri Leishiyo Keishing, MLA Lamsang AC Shri Sorokhaibam Rajen Singh, and renowned artistes of the State, among others.
