Manipur, Feb 7 (ANI): India's northeastern Manipur is hosting an annual theatre festival popularly known as Shumang Leela. The art form derives its name from 'Shumang', which means 'courtyard' in local parlance. The event saw the participation of 13 Shumang Leela Organisations. On the inaugural day of the festival, Peacemaker Artists' Association staged a play, 'Tampha Yai', while on the second day, Poklen Pokpa Artists' Association staged 'Film Star Thoibi', followed by Sangai Artists' Association's 'Neirehe'. However, many of the Shumang Leela groups were disappointed with not being able to perform at the festival because of the prevailing law and order situation and diktats by different students and civil organisations banning them from staging their plays because of Board and other examinations, thereby , leaving them with fewer plays. Most of the plays depicted different kinds of women, the struggles within families and the evil nature of mankind. The festival also provided a platform to talented youngsters to explore and nurture their talents. This 11th Shumang Leela festival has been organised by Manipur State Shumang Leela Council. Shumang Leela's origin goes back to the reign of King Chandrakriti in the nineteenth century. Today, the theatre form is a distinct facet of t
