New Delhi hosts theater festival to preserve Manipur's rich tradition

New Delhi, Apr 17: In an endeavor to preserve the extremely rich theater tradition of Manipur, which has not been able to achieve the kind of popularity it deserves at the national level, New Delhi hosted a theater festival, where troupes from the northeast performed 16 different plays.

Young artists from Manipur performed the play Loikang, which means a return from exile, at the festival held at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts here.

The play deals with the struggle of the two lovers against the empire, their exile, the problems they faced and the ultimate triumph of their love. It is the love saga of a princess and a servant of the Moirang Empire in 12th century.

"The loss of accountability of the young generation to their culture and their traditions is something very significant. We want to bring people's attention towards it. And we are thankful to IGNCA who is working towards the revival of the dying art forms and also bringing it into the public sphere the indigenous forms of theatre," said Lokendra Arambam, Director.

"Through this kind of festival we can bring love, unity and understanding between people in Northeast and other parts of country. It will surely teach them to live in unity," added Ima Tejpati, a performer.

Scores of Delhites attended the festival and were happy to sample a slice of the rich and vibrant culture of the region.

"It raises awareness of the people in other parts of the country. Also it is very interesting to see the Manipuri costumes, musical Instrument etc. People get to know a lot more about the region so it is a good initiative," said Supriya, a visitor.

A northeast festival is not complete without a display of cane and bamboo goods. Artisans of the region excel in bamboo and cane work.

A small craft bazaar was set up at the venue. Along with bamboo and cane products, artificial jewellery, hand made traditional clothes and other goods were also displayed. The fair provided a good opportunity to the crafts persons to showcase their skills.

"It is a great chance for the artisans from the North East. Here I got to learn so much. I am happy that such fairs are being organized as they help us understand the demands of a region much better," said Pamringla, an artisan from Mizoram.

During the festival, a theatre workshop was also organized to attract more youth to theatre of the region, which is slowly fading away.