A 4-day seminar on Shumang Leela, organized by the Manipur State Kala Academy, kicked off today at the Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen in Palace Compound, Imphal. The inaugural function was graced by Mongjam Joy, Commissioner of the Art and Culture Department, Government of Manipur, as Chief Guest, along with Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Yumnam Rajen.

The seminar will feature 16 research scholars, playwrights, directors, critics, and artists presenting papers on various aspects of Shumang Leela across 16 topics.

On the opening day, Research Scholar Premmi Wahengbam presented a paper titled “Manipur’s Shumang Leela and its Social Significance,” followed by State Kala Academy Awardee Phurailatpam Gunachandra Sharma, who spoke on “Norms and Traditional Values of Shumang Leela.” The session was moderated by Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Yumnam Rajendra.

In the second session, renowned artist and director Salam Ongbi Muktabani presented on “Moirang Kangleirol da Khongjom Parva,” while theatre artist and director Loitongbam Dorendro discussed “Moirang Parva Tradition of Shumang Leela.” This session was moderated by National Awardee Dr. Makhonmani Mongsaba.

The seminar aims to delve deep into the cultural and traditional significance of Shumang Leela, fostering a greater understanding of its norms and values.