Imphal, July 4 (IANS) Reiterating the Centre’s commitment under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Saturday said that development and preservation of the country’s rich cultural heritage must progress together.

Addressing the golden jubilee celebrations of the Production Unit of the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) in Imphal, the Governor said that the Production Unit, established in 1976, has played a pivotal role in nurturing experimental dance-dramas and has evolved into a distinguished cultural ambassador, showcasing the elegance and richness of Manipuri dance and music across India and abroad.

Bhalla said that the presentation of the dance-drama Keibul Lamjao reflects Manipur’s rich natural and cultural heritage while conveying the importance of environmental conservation and the protection of the state’s unique identity.

He appreciated the tireless efforts of the choreographers, musicians, technicians and artistes whose dedication brought the production to life.

The Governor also inaugurated the year-long golden jubilee celebrations of the JNMDA Production Unit, released a commemorative souvenir and felicitated retired senior artistes and former officials of the Production Unit in recognition of their invaluable contributions.

The celebration marks 50 years of the Production Unit’s dedicated service towards preserving, promoting and showcasing the rich heritage of Manipuri dance, music and performing arts.

The programme was attended by First Lady Jyoti Bhalla, Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA) Chairman Dr Sandhya Purecha, SNA Secretary Raju Das, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South) Major General Gaurav Sharma, and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Regional Director, Shillong, Dr N. Munish Singh, among other dignitaries.

The Governor, along with the First Lady and other distinguished guests, witnessed the dance-drama Keibul Lamjao, which portrays the challenges surrounding the survival of the endangered Sangai, the state animal of Manipur, while highlighting the need for its conservation.

A large number of distinguished artistes, cultural enthusiasts, academicians, officials and members of the public also attended the celebration.

Meanwhile, Governor Bhalla also chaired the Advisory Committee meeting of the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, held at the Conference Hall of Raj Bhavan in Imphal on Saturday.

The meeting observed a one-minute silence as a mark of respect to eminent gurus and cultural stalwarts, including Ratan Thiyam, Khumanthem Prakash Singh, Prof. N. Tombi Singh and Kshetrimayum Thouranisabi Devi, who passed away during 2025-26.

The committee discussed several important matters related to the development, expansion and future activities of the Academy, with members sharing suggestions for strengthening the institution’s role in preserving and promoting Manipuri performing arts.

Senior officials of the Sangeet Natak Akademi and the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy attended the meeting.

–IANS

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