3-day Festival of Dance and Music kicks off

A three-day Festival of Dance and Music was inaugurated at the Government Dance College, Palace Compound, Imphal today.
It was organised by the Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre (EZCC), Kolkata under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in association with the Department of Art and Culture, Government of Manipur.
Chief Guest of the inaugural function, Tongbram Robindro Singh, MLA of Thanga A/C, described the festival as more than just an event, calling it a celebration of culture that transcends generations and boundaries. He emphasized that dance is a powerful medium that narrates stories, evokes emotions, and reflects identity, while also appreciating the growing interest among youth in the field.
Speaking at the function, Commissioner of Art and Culture, H. Gyanprakash, IAS expressed satisfaction, noting that the festival marks a significant revival of cultural activities after a period of disruption.
He highlighted that the event features daily performances and provides a platform for both students and renowned artists, many of whom are award recipients. He also mentioned that workshops involving around 50 participants were conducted prior to the festival.
Guest of Honour Budha Chingtham, Member of the Board of Governors, EZCC, underlined the importance of preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
He noted that despite having numerous nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, Manipur has faced challenges in organising large-scale cultural festivals in recent years.
He expressed hope that such initiatives would bridge gaps and bring cultural practices closer to the masses.
The festival brings together artists, teachers, and cultural practitioners, aiming to strengthen cultural bonds and inspire greater appreciation for traditional art forms.
The festival showcases a rich variety of dance forms, including Folk Music,Thang Ta, Kathak Dance, Bharatanatyam and other folks dance forms will be held at open stage, Laibung creating a vibrant cultural ambiance. Folk Music by Rhythms of Manipur, Koireng Tribe Dance and Thang Ta were showcase on the inaugural function.