Bishnupur, November 15: The first edition of the Loktak Literary and Art Festival came to a spirited close today at the Loktak Development Authority Complex in Sendra, celebrating Manipur’s creative traditions through a blend of literature, visual arts, and music. Curated by Bishnupur Deputy Commissioner Pooja Elangbam, the festival created a platform for dialogue, learning, and cultural appreciation.
Over two days, participants explored a diverse set of topics including poetry in the era of generative AI, gender and society, folklore, film, and Northeast India’s historical narratives. The opening day featured a Children’s Day segment, highlighted by a theatre performance that underscored the ecological importance of Loktak Lake.
The Imphal Art Gallery added visual depth with an exhibit of works by Manipuri artists, while folk performers and local bands brought the evenings to life with music reflecting the region’s cultural rhythm.
In her remarks, Elangbam described art and literature as essential to personal and collective well-being and announced plans to establish the festival as an annual celebration that bridges tradition with contemporary creative expression.
Organised by the District Administration, with support from NHPC and NHIDCL, the festival aimed to reaffirm the value of cultural preservation amid evolving societal challenges.
