Kaina Foundation Imphal on Saturday organised its first ever dance festival ‘Khongthang’ at Shree Shree Krishnachandra Gurumayum Mandap, Yaishkul Hiruhanba Leikai.

Presenting the keynote address, Kaina Foundation Imphal secretary Yumnam Bhumeshor, said the programme is being held with an objective to promote Manipuri dance and music at international level. The foundation is aiming to conduct such a festival every year as a calendar programme, he said.

He further said that Kaina Foundation focuses on providing support to underprivileged children who wish to learn Manipuri Dance. Therefore, under the guidance of Latasana Devi, the foundation has been providing free learning courses in Manipuri Dance to more than 150 such children in Mumbai for the past five years, he added.

Addressing the function as chief guest, national secretary Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party (RLJP) B Ruchida Sharma, who also plays a role in the formation of Kaina Foundation said that her desire to preserve and promote rich cultural heritage of Manipur had persuaded her to conduct the dance festival.

She further said that Manipur is being glorified at international level through arts and culture. The youth should extend their best efforts to safeguard the cultural heritage of the state, she said.  

She sought support from experts, academicians who are in the field of art and culture to share their ideas and views that would help in making her endeavours a success.

During the function, various forms of dances namely Krishna Suti, Krishna Roop, Abhisarika Nayika, Yeningtha, Nupipala and Thougal Jagoi were showcased. Besides, performing arts such as Moibung and Pung Cholom, Thang-Ta and Dhol Cholom were also presented.

The programme was also attended by former examinations controller, Manipur University H Rajamani Singh and ex-director, Educational Multimedia Research Centre, Manipur University N Premchand Singh as president and guest of honour respectively.