Imphal: Maharaj Leisemba Sanajaoba, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) unveiled the bust of Late Padmashri Guru Maisnam Amubi Singh, on his 50th Death Anniversary observation Wednesday.
The observance ceremony held at Jagoi Marup Complex, Lamboikhongnangkhong, was organized by Manipuri Jagoi Marup, Imphal, one of the oldest dance institutes founded by the late Guru.
Speaking at the ceremony, MP Leishemba Sanajaoba said that the Late Guru, father of Manipuri Classical and Solo dance, created a platform for art and culture through the unique Manipuri dance form making Manipur known to the world. The beautiful art form created by the guru has been taken forward by his students till today and hoped that the students will maintain the values and traditions for a better platform for art and culture for future generations, he added.
The MP further stated that the Manipuri society is a very traditional and value-oriented society but there seems to be lack of cultural values and tradition among the present generation. The only people who are safeguarding the cultural traditions and values are those in the field of arts, he added. Further, he said that to develop a disciplined society we need to maintain discipline in every aspect of our life. The
MP also said that he will extend possible support to the organization in improving and bringing forth the cultural traditions of the Late Guru.
MLA Kh. Raghumani Singh said that art and culture have played a big role in presenting the Manipuri society to the world. He said that culture should be developed practically and effort should be made to promote the standard and quality of Manipuri art and culture for future generations.
Stating that maintaining discipline is seen only in the field of art and culture, he said art and culture plays a big role in bringing a disciplined life among the youths. Westernization has somewhat degraded the life of the present generation and we need to inculcate the unique cultural and traditional values as a lesson among the youths. He further added that we should hope for the betterment of the cultural values and traditions handed down by the Guru among the students and others in the society.
It is worth mentioning that Padmashri Awardee Late Guru Maisnam Amubi Singh was the first winner of Sangeet Natak Akademi award from the state of Manipur in 1956. He was honoured by the Government of India in 1970 with Padma Shri, the fourth highest Indian civilian award.
Artists from MJM, JNMDA, Meitei Jagoi, Kolkota; Panthoibi Jagoi Marup, New Delhi taking part in cultural performances were also felicitated as part of the observance ceremony.
Padmashri Awardee Smt. Indira Devi, Gurus of the institute, invitees and students attended the observance ceremony among others.
