JOIN USFrom the land of manipur
With an aim to strengthen the bond between Manipur and Karnataka, The Manipur Liaison Officer, Government of Manipur organised a two-day festival Manipur Kumhei recently.
The first day’s events were held at Jnana Jyothi Auditorium, Central College and the second day’s activities were organised at Glass House, Raj Bhavan.
The fest was inaugurated by Dr RK Nimai, Commissioner of Art and Culture, Government of Manipur. The first day saw the screening of award-winning Manipuri films namely Noong Amadi Yeroom, Phijigee Mani and Maami Sami which got the appreciation of the public.
Roshan Tekcham, who hails from Manipur and works with a finance company, was happy after attending the function. He wanted to be referred to as a “South Indian Manipuri”. “It’s been eight years since I have been living in Bangalore and I’ve learnt Kannada as well. Whenever I speak to auto drivers in Kannada, they are gobsmacked. My Manipuri friends and I relish the idlis and dosas available here,” he said.
The second day saw cultural performances by various Manipuri artistes who enthralled the audience completely. The much-awaited colourful show began with Lai Haraoba, a spiritual dance. The performance dealt with priests and priestesses who performed rituals to honour ancestors. Next up was Thang Leiteng Haiba, a martial arts performance by female warriors. Carrying swords in their hands, the two ladies held the audience spellbound with their amazing act.
Later, it was the turn of male artistes to showcase their fighting techniques in a performance called Thang Ani Yannaba. The two warriors fought so fiercely that sparks flew out of their swords. Next on stage was Kabui Jagoi, a tribal dance by the Naga community. The dance item was very attractive with colourful costumes and headgear. The steps resembled the movements of an insect and the crowd cheered them throughout the performance.
It was the martial arts performance by a seven-year-old boy which made the audience sit at the edge of their seats. He performed some of the most dangerous and risky acts with two swords. It was followed by a balancing act wherein the performer juggled with three sticks skillfully. Female warriors fought with two men bravely in Thang Yannaba. The Mao dance was a treat for the eyes and depicted the harvest season.
Pung Cholom showcased the acrobatic and drum-beating skills of the artistes. The cultural show concluded with Raas Leela, a Manipuri classical dance which depicted the love between Radha and Krishna and the devotion of the gopikas for Krishna in an effective manner.
Nong Maitshm, who is learning animation course in the City, was elated after meeting a good number of Manipuris. “I have been staying here for nearly two years but for the first time, I am seeing such a big Manipuri crowd. It’s like a reunion for most of us who are staying far from home. I never knew that we have such a vibrant culture. I am ready to extend my support in conducting such events,” he said excitedly.