The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Regional Centre, Guwahati, and the Manipur University of Culture (MUC) formalised a partnership on Friday with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at MUC’s Imphal campus.
The agreement seeks to promote joint research, documentation, and dissemination of traditional knowledge systems, indigenous practices, and performing arts of the region.
The MoU was signed by MUC’s Acting Registrar, Laishram Radhakanta Singh, and IGNCA Regional Director, Dr. Sapam Ranabir Singh, in the presence of Vice Chancellor Prof. Paonam Gunindro Singh, Art and Culture Director K. Dinamani Singh, and faculty members.
Following the signing, a panel discussion on “Value Crisis in Umanglai Haraoba” explored the challenges faced by the ritualistic festival in the modern context.
Scholars and cultural activists, including K. Ranjit Adhikarimayum, Dr. Nganbi Chanu, Mutum Maniton, and Dr. Thounaojam Ruhichand Singh, shared perspectives on preserving its symbolism and traditions.
Special guests Soibam Kulabidhu Singh and Chingkheimayum Brojen Meetei were felicitated for contributions to cultural education.
Speakers stressed the need for academic responsibility, institutional collaboration, and community engagement to sustain Manipur’s living heritage.
