A two-month ‘training cum new production on Thang-Ta fighting styles’ organised by the Association for Paona Memorial Arts and Rural Development Services (APMARDS) successfully concluded on Saturday.
The valedictory event was held at New Era Higher Secondary School in Thoubal Okram Wangmataba. The Training cum second production was organised under Chief Minister gi Artistes singgi Tengbang (CMAT) initiated by the State Department of Art and Culture.
Popular Manipuri actor and singer Hamom Sadananda; principal of New Era Higher Secondary School Th Kumar; Ak Sanjoy of Communicative English Language Training Institute (CELTI) and founder chairman of New Era Higher Secondary School N Ojit were among those present at the valedictory event.
Speaking at the event, APMARDS secretary K Hemchandra Sharma highlighted the initiatives taken by the organisation to promote and uplift the indigenous martial art for over 20 years. He asserted that various thang-ta events were organised in various areas across the State, adding that this year’s venue was chosen at New Era Higher Secondary School with an aim to raise awareness of thang-ta among the students.
He further stressed the need for the students to stay fit and healthy, stating that health plays a crucial role in the education process. Practising thang-ta will boost the energy level and stamina of the students, he maintained. K Hemchandra emphasized the significance of Thang-ta and its connection with the history of the Meiteis and also mentioned various Thang-ta schemes and fellowships.
Also speaking at the event, Actor Hamom Sadananda asserted that one must be aware of the culture, tradition and various indigenous art forms of the state. He further lauded New Era Higher Secondary School for including thang-ta as a subject in its syllabus to promote culture and tradition. He also encouraged the students to voluntarily learn and explore said areas.
The attendees also observed a two-minute silence as a mark of respect to the martyrs who laid down their lives to protect the state’s integrity in the ongoing conflict. Certificates were also distributed to students of the school and artists on the occasion. A new production on Thang-Ta fighting styles was also showcased during the event.