IMPHAL, December 28: `Matam Eshei Amashug Aei`\u2122, a book on Manipuri modern music, written by Aribam Syam Sharma was released here today morning at the Shri Shri Gopaldev Mandap, Thangmeiband Lourungpurel Leikai.<\/p>\n
Speaking at the function, B Jayantakumar pointed out that the book can be termed as an authentic documentation of Manipuri modern songs from the beginning of its journey till it thrived by occupying a unique space in the socio-cultural landscape of the region. <\/p>\n
He maintained that his statement is sufficed by the fact that the book has been written by Syam Sharma, who had embarked on the said journey as one of the pioneers.<\/p>\n
The release function was graced by ethnomusicologist, Laishram Birendrakumar, noted historian and scholar, RK Jhalajit, noted writer and lyricist B Jayantakumar Sharma and Gurumayum Surjit, the first music recordist of the State. A host of artists and writers were also present at the occasion.<\/p>\n
Writer of the book, Syam Sharma stated that the book is dedicated to all those artists, musicians, lyricist and singers namely N Pahari, G Robindro, N Ekendra, K Jaminikanta, S Ibopishak, A Tombisana, A Budhachandra, A Shyam, Khun Joykumar and other renown singers of yesteryears, and to those who are still serving the people through music.<\/p>\n
Syam Sharma recalled that Manipuri modern song was an offshoot of young artists during the 1950s who wanted to express their feelings with a different style and content. It was a new wave of youthful artists, who sought for an idiom besides the traditional Pena, Khongjom Parva and Sankirtan, he said.<\/p>\n
He maintained that Manipuri theatre served as bedrock in shaping the new idiom of song. By the term `modern`\u2122 one should not be mistaken that the songs were all about romance, but there were songs of patriotism and devotion to God, he added.<\/p>\n
A devotional song written by Huidrom Bharat, composed by Syam Sharma was also presented by the artists of Roop Rag, which was led by Kongkham Birkumar.<\/p>\n\n