Manipur Governor calls for safeguarding state cultural identity and heritage
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla attended the inaugural ceremony of the first North East Waree Leeba Festival in Imphal West district on Monday.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla emphasised the importance of protecting the state's historical legacy and cultural memory on Monday. He spoke at the opening of the first North East Waree Leeba Festival, 2026, at the Irom Meijrao Mamang Community Hall in Imphal West district, according to The Hawk.
The five-day event is organised by the Repertory of Waree Leeba, Khurai, alongside the Irom Meijrao Women for Cultural Centre. Bhalla noted that Waree Leeba serves to teach, amuse, and transmit social values, making its preservation vital for the state's identity.
The Governor described the storytelling tradition as a way to pass down ancestral myths, legends, and beliefs between generations. He expressed hope that the festival would encourage long-term efforts to promote this tradition and improve cultural cooperation within the North East.
During the ceremony, Bhalla paid floral tributes to three deceased Waree Leeba gurus and honoured gurus from Tripura and Assam. He also watched a presentation of an episode from the Mahabharata performed by artist Shyamkanhai Singh.
Bhalla praised the artist for his expressive narration and traditional style. The programme was attended by Art and Culture Minister Kh. Loken Singh, various gurus, and artists.