The 4th Sankirtana Day was observed today at Chandrakirti Auditorium, Palace Compound, Imphal, with eminent cultural personality Aribam Syam Sharma gracing the event as chief guest. The programme was jointly organised by the Department of Art and Culture, Manipur State Kala Akademi, Manipur University of Culture, Pala Loishang, Shri Shri Govindaji Temple Board and Manipur Nata Sankirtana Apunba.

In his address, Syam Sharma highlighted Manipur’s rich creative tradition and unique cultural identity, describing the state as a “talent-fertile land” that has produced many great personalities. He said that while Sankirtana is practised across India, Manipur’s form is distinct and deeply rooted in its cultural ethos. Stressing the need to honour the Gurus who safeguarded the tradition, he urged the government to construct a dedicated space to pay homage to departed gurus who played a vital role in sustaining Sankirtana.

He cautioned that societal changes and increasing competitiveness pose challenges to the preservation of traditional art forms. He emphasised that Manipur’s Sankirtana, inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list after overcoming many hurdles, must be protected with utmost care. If its aesthetic essence is lost, he warned, its global recognition may also diminish. He called for sustained efforts to align preservation with societal changes.

Syam Sharma further appealed for the formation of a committee to safeguard and promote the state’s diverse artistic heritage. He suggested that Sankirtana Day be observed as a festival to facilitate documentation and preservation of its traditional form.

Art & Culture Commissioner H. Gyan Prakash, IAS, acknowledged Syam Sharma’s key contribution in securing UNESCO recognition for Manipur’s Sankirtana and assured that the government would continue efforts to promote the state’s cultural heritage.

As part of the observance, eminent gurus and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardees were felicitated. Students of the Manipur University of Culture presented Nupi Pala, followed by a Sankirtana performance by MANSA.

The event was attended by former Commissioner M. Joy Singh, retired IAS; K. Dinamani Singh, Director of Art & Culture; Sunanda Thokchom, Secretary of Manipur State Kala Akademi; along with noted cultural figures, faculty and staff of MUC, and other invitees.

Sankirtana of Manipur, inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2013, is a ritual performance art combining singing, drumming and dancing in devotion to Lord Krishna. It plays a central role in Manipuri Vaishnavite culture and is performed at major religious and life-cycle ceremonies.