Imphal: The Governor of Manipur, Anusuiya Uikey, has said that she will help to further develop the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) and artists in the state. The Governor was speaking at the Certificate Award Ceremony of JNMDA held today at the Open Air Theatre of the Academy in Imphal.
The Governor, while attending the ceremony as the chief guest, said, the North East, especially Manipur, has a unique culture that is different from other cultures in the world. She said if we look into the cultures, traditions, dances, attires, etc., we can feel the difference, which is unique, and we cannot find it anywhere except in the North East and Manipur. Manipuri music touches our hearts, and we are proud of it, she added.
Appealing to the artists, and gurus to move forward to develop the rich cultural legacies, the Governor said, the work being done by JNMDA for the progress of art and culture, especially dance, is praiseworthy and has special significance for artists and all of us, and therefore all possible help will be extended to the Academy.
The governor further said that the academy is the premier dance academy in the country. She said, since its inception, the Academy has produced many eminent artists who are held in high esteem in the Manipuri cultural sphere. The Academy has been conducting courses in various dance forms of Manipur, and its Production Unit has produced classy dance dramas widely acclaimed not only in the country but also internationally.
The governor continued that JNMDA will not only continue to strive for the best in Manipuri culture but also work on various issues related to it in the world of modern art and culture.
Anusuiya Uikey stated that Manipuri dance, which originated in ancient times, has retained ritual practises that were prevalent in the region. Dance and music symbolising joy and gaiety bear the imprint of their long social and cultural histories and traditions. Without the artists and their dedication, we might not be able to stay connected to our past and strong roots. Our endeavour should be to create a conducive environment for cultural traditions and practises to flourish, and we must encourage our youth to keep these skills and creativity alive and strong.
In the ceremony, the governor handed over three gold medals to three outstanding students of the academy. She also witnessed spectacular choreographic work shown by the artists, gurus, and students of the academy. Chairman, Chorus Repertory Theatre, Dr. Ratan Thiyam, and Director, JNMDA, P. Bilash Singh, distributed certificates to the students in the ceremony.
