NewKerala.com

Manipur CM Highlights State's Global Cultural and Sporting Legacy

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh emphasized the state's global recognition for its art, culture, and sporting heritage. He spoke at the 54th Foundation Day of Panthoibi Natya Mandir, urging further promotion of culture and sports. The event included a workshop on Manipuri Pony and Sagol Kangjei, with certificates distributed to 31 participants. Art and Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh also addressed the gathering, congratulating awardees for their contributions.

Key Points: Manipur CM on Cultural, Sporting Legacy at Panthoibi Event

  • Manipur's cultural and sporting legacy is globally recognized
  • CM urges promotion of culture and sports for broader benefits
  • Workshop on Manipuri Pony and Sagol Kangjei held
  • Certificates distributed to 31 workshop participants
2 min read

Manipur CM highlights state's globally renowned cultural and sporting legacy

Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh highlights state's global recognition in art, culture, and sports at Panthoibi Natya Mandir's 54th Foundation Day.

"Panthoibi Natya Mandir has been nurturing talents ever since its inception. - Yumnam Khemchand Singh"

Imphal, May 1

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Friday said that Manipur has earned widespread global recognition for its rich art, culture, traditions, and sporting heritage.

Speaking at the 54th Foundation Day celebration of Panthoibi Natya Mandir, held at Shri Shri Nityainanda Mandop in Yumnam Leikai, Imphal West district, the Chief Minister mentioned that the state's vibrant cultural and sporting legacy is well known across the world.

He urged the people to further promote and develop Manipur's culture and sports for broader and multipurpose benefits.

Singh commended Panthoibi Natya Mandir for organising a workshop on Manipuri Pony and Sagol Kangjei (polo), alongside its continued focus on cultural themes.

He noted that it is encouraging to see the organisation training young members of society in Sagol Kangjei through such initiatives.

Delivering his presidential address, Art and Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh congratulated all awardees at the function for bringing recognition and laurels to the state. The Chief Minister also distributed certificates to 31 youngsters who participated in the workshop.

In a post on his X handle, Singh stated: "Panthoibi Natya Mandir has been nurturing talents ever since its inception. In the field of theatre and traditional dance, it has made a mark and is acknowledged with reverence in Manipur. The government is committed to upholding and preserving its reputation."

Friday's programme also featured the valedictory function of a 15-day workshop titled "Strengthening Culture and Value in Education through the Means of Sports, especially Sagol Kangjei (Polo) of Manipur," along with a reception for awardees and the presentation of Minglen Khonga 2026.

The Chief Minister honoured several theatre and cultural personalities, including Akham Niladhaja Khuman (Manipur State Kala Academy Awardee 2024 in Theatre), Sarungbam Beeren (MSKA Awardee 2024 in Theatre), Khwairakpam Bishwamittra Singh (MSKA Awardee 2024 in Theatre), Heisnam Sabitri (Bahuroopi Ranga Gourava 2026, Rangayana Mysore, Government of Karnataka), Sanglakpam Khogendro Sharma (MSKA Awardee 2023 in Rasdhari), Rajkumar Khogendra Singh (MSKA Awardee 2024 in Dance), and Yumnam Mangi Singh (Manipuri Sahitya Parishad Awardee, Sangeet Bhushan 2024 Monoharsai).

The Minglen Khonga Award 2026 was presented to Laimayum Minakumari Devi.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Stephanie T
As someone who visited Manipur last year, I can vouch for its cultural richness. The traditional dances and the warmth of the people are unmatched. However, I hope the government also focuses on basic infrastructure and connectivity to truly showcase this legacy to the world. Let's not just talk - we need action!
P
Pooja D
Ek number! 👏 The fact that Manipur is the birthplace of modern polo is something every Indian should know. But honestly, I feel a bit sad that these things don't get mainstream coverage in national media. If it was from Delhi or Mumbai, they'd be celebrating on every news channel. Manipur deserves better exposure.
J
James A
Great to see the state government acknowledging talent at the grassroots level. Awards and recognition are nice, but what about long-term support for these artists? Many of them struggle financially. The CM should announce concrete schemes for cultural practitioners - monthly honorariums, performance venues, and pension plans would be a start.
R
Ramesh W
Manipur's art and culture are truly world-class. I remember watching a Thang-Ta performance and it was breathtaking. The youth training in Sagol Kangjei is a brilliant move. But I hope the government doesn't forget the logistical challenges - good ponies are expensive and proper training grounds are scarce. Need more public-private partnership in this.
A
Aditi M
Beautiful! The Panthoibi Natya Mandir has been doing yeoman's service for decades. But let's be honest - how many of these awardees will get government jobs or stable incomes? Our cultural heritage is priceless, but the artists behind it are often forgotten

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50