A three-day Festival of Dance and Music commenced today at the Government Dance College, Palace Compound, Imphal, bringing together artists, students, and cultural enthusiasts from across the region.
The festival is being 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.
Inaugurating the event, Chief Guest Tongbram Robindro Singh, MLA of Thanga Assembly Constituency, described the festival as more than just an event, calling it a celebration of culture that transcends generations and boundaries. He emphasised that dance serves as a powerful medium to narrate stories, evoke emotions, and reflect identity, while also appreciating the increasing interest among youth in cultural arts.
Speaking on the occasion, Commissioner of Art and Culture H. Gyanprakash expressed satisfaction, noting that the festival marks a significant revival of cultural activities following a period of disruption. He highlighted that the programme features daily performances by both students and renowned, award-winning artists, and added that workshops involving around 50 participants were conducted prior to the event.
Guest of Honour Budha Chingtham, Member of the Board of Governors of EZCC, stressed the importance of preserving and promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage. He noted that despite Manipur producing many nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, organising large-scale cultural festivals has been challenging in recent years. He expressed hope that such initiatives would help bridge gaps and bring cultural practices closer to the public.
The festival showcases a diverse range of performances, including Folk Music, Thang Ta, Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and other traditional dance forms at the open stage, Laibung, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere. The inaugural function featured performances by Rhythms of Manipur, Koireng Tribe Dance, and Thang Ta.
The event aims to strengthen cultural bonds and inspire greater appreciation for traditional art forms among the public.
