The 4th Sankirtana Day was observed at the Chandrakirti Auditorium, Palace Compound, with renowned filmmaker and cultural icon Aribam Syam Sharma gracing the event as the chief guest. The programme was jointly organised by the Department of Art & Culture, Manipur State Kala Akademi, Manipur University of Culture, Pala Loishang, Shri Shri Govindaji Temple Board, and the Manipur Nata Sankirtana Apunba.

Emphasis on Honouring Gurus and Safeguarding Tradition

In his keynote address, Shri Syam Sharma highlighted the depth and diversity of Manipur’s creative and ritual traditions, noting that the state’s unique Sankirtana culture owes its survival to generations of devoted Gurus. He urged for greater reverence and institutional recognition for these custodians of tradition, including the creation of a dedicated space to honour departed Gurus.

He further stressed the need to preserve the aesthetic purity and ritual significance of Manipuri Sankirtana, which was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2013. To strengthen the safeguarding process, he recommended establishing a committee to protect various indigenous art forms and proposed that Sankirtana Day be observed as a festival, ensuring systematic documentation and long-term preservation.

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Cultural Preservation

Addressing the gathering, Shri H. Gyan Prakash, IAS, Commissioner of Art & Culture, acknowledged Shri Syam Sharma’s pivotal role in bringing Manipuri Sankirtana to global recognition. He assured that the state government remains committed to supporting initiatives aimed at protecting and promoting Manipur’s cultural legacy.

Honouring Cultural Practitioners and Youth Performers

As part of the observance, eminent Gurus and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardees were felicitated for their contributions to the art form. The event also featured:

• Nupi Pala performances by students of the Manipur University of Culture
• Sankirtana presentations by artists of MANSA

These performances highlighted the living vibrancy and continuity of Manipuri ritual traditions.

About Manipuri Sankirtana

Recognised internationally since 2013, Manipuri Sankirtana is a ritual art form that blends singing, drumming, and dance, central to Vaishnavite practices in Manipur. It is performed during important religious ceremonies, community events, and festivals, serving as both a spiritual expression and a cultural cornerstone of the state.