SENAPATI, Dec 6: Manipur showcased its vibrant cultural heritage on Friday as 69 artistes were honoured with the State Kala Akademi Awards 2023–24 at a ceremony held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Akademi in Imphal. The awards spanned diverse categories, including Fellowships, Young Talent Awards, Young Writer Awards, and recognitions across Dance, Music, Shumang Leela, Thang-Ta, Tribal Culture, and Literature.
Renowned painter-sculptor Thoidingjam Tombi Singh received the prestigious MSKA Lifetime Achievement Award for his immense contributions to the arts. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who presented the honours, commended the awardees and highlighted the depth of Manipur’s cultural heritage—from Raas and Lai Haraoba to folk and tribal art forms. He noted that the State Kala Akademi, since its inception in 1972, has upheld artistic excellence and ensured recognition for deserving talents, including clearing a two-year award backlog.
Meanwhile, the Poumai Naga Tsiidoumai Me (PNTM) extended warm congratulations to P. Sapunii of Liyai Khullen Village for receiving the Manipur State Kala Akademi Award 2023 in Performing Art for the year 2023 & 2024 (Tribal Culture). Sapunii, was recognised for his efforts in preserving and promoting tribal cultural heritage. His award includes a cash prize, memento, Certificate of Honour and shawl.
The PNTM praised Sapunii’s dedication and resilience, calling his achievement a source of “immense pride and joy” for the Poumai community. The union described his contributions as inspirational and expressed confidence that he would continue to uplift Poumai cultural identity and achieve greater milestones.
