15 days long 11th Manipur Winter Shumang Leela festival 2014-15 organised by Manipur State Shumang Leela Council begins today at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Imphal.
The inaugural function was attended by Agriculture Minister, Md. Abdul Nasir, Chairman, Manipur Pollution Control Board, Dr. Ng. Bijoy Singh and Social Worker, S. Manaoton as Chief Guest, President and Guest of honour respectively.
Speaking on the occasion, Md. Nasir stated that the sports and art & culture play an important role in the development of our society. There is a need of promoting and preserving the art and culture of Manipur. Shumang Leela is making immense contribution to the development of art and culture of the society. In order to preserve it from its extinction he assured that he would approach the Chief Minister to extend financial support by reflecting at the budget so as to develop this art form to a certain extent. He further added that Shumang Leela imparts various messages to the public and so there is a need of strengthening this art form so that our culture is showcase internationally.
On the first day of the festival, Chakpa Makhao Ngambi of Iramdam Manipur Artiste Association was showcased today.
