IMPHAL, Feb 13 NNN: Manipuri theatre Shumang Leela is not only an entertainment but it also plays a great role in changing the society by staging the terrible events of life, Chief Minister O Ibibi said today.
\nThe Chief Minister said this while addressing the closing ceremony of the 9th Shumang Leela Ningtham Kumei at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen in Palace Compound here.
\nThe winter Shumang Leela festival was organized by Manipur State Shumang Leela Council (MSSLC). The festival commenced last December at Iboiyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen.
\nLauding the MSSLC for its role in preserving Shumang Leela and promoting it in the state, the Chief Minister assured that he would consider whether the MSSLC could be given grant-in-aid like other literary societies in the state.
\nHe also assured that the Department of Art & Culture, Manipur would be consulted pertaining to allotment of land where the Shumang Leela Shanglen is presently located.
\nLater, Ibobi handed over Rs 1 lakh from the Chief Minister\u2019s Discretionary Fund to MSSLC.
\nEarlier, the Chief Minister gave away prizes to the winners of best production, second best production and best discipline of the Leela festival.
\nPlay \u201cEe Mari\u201d of the Sanaleibak Nachom Artistes bagged the best production prize, the Sangai Artistes\u2019 Association won the second best production prize for its play \u201cNungshiba
\nMapum Puwari Machet\u201d and the best discipline prize by Naharol Khongthang Artistes\u2019 Association.
\nMLA K Ranjit, former minister also attended the function. He also distributed other prizes to the artistes.<\/p>\n\n