Imphal: Chief Minister N. Biren Singh attended the Award Presentation of the 21st Shumang Leela Ningtham Kumhei, 2024-2025, and the presentation of “3rd May” (Shumang Leela Play) at Th. Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, here, on Friday. The Manipur State Shumang Leela Council organised the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Biren Singh appreciated the contributions made by artistes to the society during these difficult times in the State.
The Chief Minister maintained that the State Government had always been providing support to artistes of the State. He continued that Shri Ratan Thiyam was honoured with the Life Time Achievement Award acknowledging his contribution in the field of art and culture during the celebration of the 54th Statehood Day, 2025.
N. Biren Singh further recalled the role played by Shumang Leela artistes during the COVID-19 pandemic by creating mass awareness. He continued that people were earlier reluctant to vaccinate themselves. During that time, he added that he consulted popular artists for organising street plays to create awareness of the importance of vaccination.
The Chief Minister further stated that many people are still unaware of the root cause of the present unprecedented crisis and are often carried away by emotions. He expressed hope that through the medium of Shumang leela, the public could be made aware of the core issues of the present crisis.
N. Biren Singh informed that the government had already allocated an amount of around Rs. 2.5 crore for the upgradation of the Th. Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen to the modern standard.
Ratan Thiyam, a renowned Indian Playwright and theatre director, praised the government for taking welfare initiatives to support the artists of the State. He added, the tourism sector of the State will play a crucial role in the process of cultural integration to showcase unity in diversity, he said.
During the function, the Chief Minister presented awards to Okram Kunjo, Nabadwip Ningthouja, K. Devan Sharma, Thokchom Ramani Devi, Purnimashi Leima, Keisham Tomba Meitei, Khunjamayum Dhakeshwar, James Heikrujam, Ayekpam Inakhunba among others.
Water Resources Minister Awangbow Newmai, CAF and PD Minister Leishangthem Susindro Meitei, Veterinary Minister Kashim Vashum, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba, MLA Phungyar AC Leishiyo Keishing, MLA Lamsang AC Sorokhaibam Rajen Singh, and renowned artists of the State, among others, attended the programme.
