A valedictory function of a month-long training cum production of Lai Haraoba Dance was held on Sunday at Khongnangpheidekpi Community Hall, Lilando Lampak Imphal.
The programme was organised by the People’s Socio-Cultural Organisation and sponsored by the Union Culture Ministry under the Cultural Function and Production Grant (CFPGS) 2018-2019.
Addressing the function as chief guest, Padmashree awardee Naba Wareppa said that Manipur is a small state. However, its art and culture is known globally. The state has proven that popularising the art form is not based on the size of the population of a state but on its aesthetic and quality, he added.
He continued that there is a strong need to safeguard the rich art and culture of the state unless it may disappear forever. To do this, the role of the committed and dedicated artists is very essential as culture and tradition are closely connected with the performing arts of the state. He also suggested the artists choose any form of performing arts as a career only after introspecting and realising their own potential.
Other dignitaries who attended the function were secretary of ENDU, A Manihar Singh; retired district youth coordinator of Nehru Yuva Kendra Sanathan, S Gourakishwor Singh; and headmistress of Mela Lampak High School, O Ishwori Devi as guests of honour and president respectively.
As a part of the programme Pena, Maibi Jagoi and Lai Haraoba (performing arts of the state) were presented by the students of the People’s Socio-Cultural Organisation.
