IMPHAL, November 7: The Chief Minister, Okram Ibobi Singh today inaugurated the 10th edition of Bhagyachandra National Festival of Classical Dance 2014, at the Shree Shree Govindaji Temple complex, Kangla Imphal.
The festival is being organised by the department of Art & Culture, government of Manipur.
Speaking during the inaugural function, the CM observed that different forms of classical performance art have become an indispensable parts of our lives. He observed that sometimes we tend to forget the creator or the designer of these art forms.
He pointed out that the festival is homage to those founders of classical art forms. Rajashree Bhagyachandra is one of the most prominent of them.
The government of Manipur, back in the year 1989 initiated the festival of classical dance, honouring King Bhagyachandra, known for his statesmanship and divine visions.
Though the Manipuri classical Raas Lila has been a popular dance in the State, sadly in the present times it has become rare to be seen, the CM said.
The Chief Minister said in this regard it is commendable that the State has acquired a replica of the “Khunti” a graphic symbol created in honour of King Bhagyachandra and in recognition of him as Rajashree, from a devotee in Nabadip.
Ths symbol is still worshipped at Radha Krishna temple, Govindabari, Jiyaganj, he said.
Further he said that the main dance festival is being held at Kangla for three days and this festival will give opportunity to the people of the State to witness various major dances from across the country as well.
In today’s performance, RK Sabitrisana Devi presented Manipuri Dance; Sujalata Mohapatra performed Odissi dance, Methil Devika showcased Mohiniyattam dance, and T Roneld Meitei also presented Manipuri dance, which enthralled the audience.
However, the sound system did not function properly during the performances, leaving the audience a bit upset.
