Manipur Governor presents State Kala Akademi Awards to 69 artists, writers

Imphal: Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, on Friday presented and conferred the prestigious Manipur State Kala Akademi Awards (MSKA), 2023 and 2024, to 69 distinguished individuals in a ceremony held at Imphal.

The awards were presented across a diverse range of categories, including the MSKA Lifetime Achievement Award, Fellowships, and awards in Dance, Music, Shumang Leela, Thang-Ta, Tribal Culture, Literature, as well as the Young Talent and Young Writer Awards.

Notably, painter Thoidingjam Tombi Singh was conferred the MSKA Lifetime Achievement Award, among other eminent awardees recognised for their significant contributions to the arts and culture of the State.

Addressing the ceremony, the Governor said that the awardees across all categories exemplify achievements that reflect Manipur’s longstanding artistic brilliance, seen in its classical Raas, Lai Haraoba traditions, folk dances, and music drawn from both the valley and the hills.

He remarked that these diverse cultural expressions embody the State’s history, identity, and community spirit, earning admiration from across the world.

The Governor further highlighted the pivotal role of the Manipur State Kala Akademi since its establishment in 1972.

He stated that the MSKA’s fellowships and awards represent the State’s highest recognition for artists, writers, and practitioners of fine arts.

Referring to the Akademi’s legacy of honouring eminent cultural figures, he expressed satisfaction that 69 individuals were being recognised for their significant contributions.

The event also featured a captivating solo dance performance by one of the Young Talent Awardees, adding a vibrant artistic highlight to the ceremony. Members of the public, eminent personalities from the arts and cultural fraternity, and senior government officials also attended the function.