Addressing the function as chief guest, La Ganesan said that artistes usually suffer financial problems while dedicating their lives to preserve and promote the art form. The authority concerned should take up some provision to provide assistance to them for their survival.

Ganesan said that Shumang Leela is a powerful medium for mass education besides providing entertainment. Shumang Leela in olden days was not only adopted as the livelihood of the artists but contributed their best for the betterment of society. The sacrifices made by artistes of olden times should be remembered by the present Shumang Leela activists, he said.

The art form also helps in promoting peaceful coexistence between various ethnic groups, he added

MLA Karam Shyam, who attended the function as president, said that though politicians always admitted the contributions made by the artistes in making the state recognised at international level, they never provide any livelihood assistance to them. He said the popularity of Shumang Leela is gradually reducing. The traditional form of theatre used to be played in most of the courtyard of houses but such culture is rarely seen now.

As a part of the programme, awards were presented to many artistes of Shumang Leela, both Nupi Shumang Leela and Nupa Shumang Leela.