The International Shumang Leela Festival, 2022, held as a part of the Manipur Sangai Festival, concluded on Tuesday at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound, Imphal East.
Appreciating the state government for inclusion of Shumang Leela Festival as a part of the Sangai Festival, Padma Shri awardee, Wareppa Naba said, "This can be one of the foundational steps to get Shumang Leela as one of the intangible heritages of Manipur from UNESCO,"
The function chief guest said the main objective of this traditional art form, Shumang Leela, is to entertain people by conveying meaningful messages. As such, it plays a great role in shaping the society, he asserted.
There is a need for support and coordination from various sections of society to promote this art form at international level, he stated, and added that "feedback and comments from the public about the Shumang Leela Festival will be taken so that they can organise the festival in a more attractive way".
As a part of the programme, organised by the Manipur State Shumang Leela Council, appreciation certificates were also distributed to artistes who took part in the international Shumang Leela Festival.
Other dignitaries, who attended the function, were president of Manipur State Shumang Leela Council, M Purnimashi Leima and deputy director of Art and Culture, G Dharmadas Sharma as president and guest of honour respectively.
