Manipur hosts tribal Folk Dance Festival.

For two days at stretch, Imphal, the capital of  Manipur reverberated to rhythmic drum beats and assorted musical instruments on the occasion of tribal Folk Dance Festival. This colourful cultural extravaganza was jointly hosted by the state government's Department of Art and Culture and the federal government's Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre on November 28 and 29. The participating artistes were enthusiastic to exhibit their varied forms of dance and music while the public response was equally overwhelming. Organisers of the fest noted that such festivals are ideal to propagate and promote most of the tribal dance forms, which in the modern era lack patronage. "This is the main project for this time as the entire districts are mixed together; culture is the common way of meeting together of tribes with the valley people. This is the main aim and objective of this department," said, Saroji Director, Department of Arts and Culture, Manipur, Imphal. Tribal folk dances of Thangkul, Kabui, Raigailong, Thadou Kuki, etc. were presented by different troupes. "This Festival highlights the age-old tradition and culture of our forefathers. We, the Tangkhul tribals have a rich heritage to show to the people. So, we are here to participate in the festival." said Mahai Lunghar, a young folk dancer The festival helps in preserving integrity of the state and to enliven the centuries old folk traditions. It also provides a platform for the present day Manipuri youth to be abreast with their state's cultural heritage.