Go to :  Index File

Traditional Shumang Leela witnessing a revival in Manipur
by LCK Singh

     Imphal: Shumang Leela, the traditional courtyard theatre of Manipur, a play where men enact various roles of women, is on a reviving spree among Manipuris. It's growing popularity was witnessed by all recently when a "Beauty Pageant Contest 2006" to select Mr. Shumang Leela-2006 and Ms. Shumang Leela-2006 was held at the Iboyaima Shemang Leela Shanglen on the Palace grounds, under the banner of the Shumang Leela Council in Manipur. The theme of the vanity fair was to attract more artistes in the field of courtyard and hunt for fresh talent. The main event of the contest was when all male artistes walked on the ramp and also spoke favourite dialogues. The participants of this mega event enthusiastically showcased their talents in playing the roles of women and also presented different forms of classical dances. "It is enjoyable and feels good. Despite being a male I have a got a chance to act like woman and prove my talent before audience. I am performing the way I have been taught by my teacher. There are just a limited number of men who can play the roles of women. We wish to showcase our talent before the country," said Thoibi, an artiste. In Shumang Leela, the women characters are actually played by male artistes. Women are generally not allowed to participate in this traditional art form. However, women are allowed to form their own theatre groups, which should have only female participants. "Shumang Leela acts as a mirror of the society at large in Manipur. The performances filled with entertainment draws a lot of people and evoke inquisitiveness to learn about the realities of life. Its purpose is to spread awareness among people about various facets of life. That is why I have decided to join," said Sarokhibam Robindro, another artiste. Courtyard theatre has been providing a platform to a lot of talented youngsters including gays, in performing arts. The young boys of the State have been seen leading a different lifestyle. Most of the boys get engaged either in the profession of make-up artistes or try acting in the courtyard theatre. Similar to theatres and films, the director plays a vital role in the successful performance of Shumang leela. His job is to take care of every act to be performed on the stage. In some of the Shumang Leela groups there are choreographers who help in improving upon the steps or sequence of the dance. Hundreds of theatre-buffs converged to watch the mega event and left spellbound after watching a fantastic performance of the artistes. Many people found it difficult to believe that all the dancers were actually male artistes. Manipuris, particularly, the Meiteis enjoy watching Shumang Leela and it is also considered the most favourite among other performing arts of the State. However, it is also popular among tribal communities like Meitei Pangal (Muslim) and others. "Shumang Leela" is believed to have taken in 1918 for the first time. It was recorded as 'Harischandra Leela' at that time. However, the basic concept of the "Leela" dates back to the era of King Chandrakriti (1851-1886) when it used to be organised in clown form. According to some scholars the practice of "Shumang Leela" descended from Lai Haraoba, a ritual ceremony performed by men to please the God and also finds mention in mythology. 'Shumang' means 'open courtyard' and 'Leela' means play and literal meaning of Shumang Leela is "a play in the open courtyard". However, it is performed in an open courtyard surrounded by spectators.
-Oct 28, 2006