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Palem
Performances From Manipur by Latasana Devi
Performer
Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing showcase of traditional and contemporary performances, blending the vibrancy of live music and the charm of recorded melodies by Sangeet Natak Akademi Award winning Latasana Devi & Group.
Programme
Raagmacha: A powerful opening act featuring two drummers setting the stage alive with pulsating rhythms.
Basant Ras: A vibrant group performance set to recorded music, celebrating the joyous spirit of spring.
Thang Ta (Sword & Spear Dance): Witness the martial prowess of a group performing this traditional Manipuri art form, accompanied by live music.
Pung Cholom (Drum Dance): A captivating group performance blending acrobatics, rhythm, and live drumming.
Devi Stuti: A soulful solo offering, paying homage to the divine feminine, set to recorded music.
Marakata: A group performance portraying vibrant themes through intricate movements, supported by recorded music.
Cheitak Jagoi (Stick Dance): A lively solo act, showcasing the energy and agility of Manipuri tradition with live musical accompaniment.
Abhisarika Nayika: A solo depiction of the classical archetype, capturing the emotions of a heroine awaiting her beloved, performed to recorded music.
Dhol Cholom: A group presentation of the traditional drum dance, exuding synchronized energy and live beats.
Palem: Closing the evening with a dynamic group performance, telling stories through expressive movements and recorded music.
In collaboration with:
Performer
Latasana Devi
Latasana Devi, a Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee, is a renowned Manipuri dance artiste, choreographer, and teacher with over four decades of experience. A disciple of Guru Bipin Singh, Padmashree Darshana Jhaveri, Kalavati Devi, and Guneswari Devi, she has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Manipuri dance. She founded the Kaina Foundation to raise awareness and encourage appreciation for the traditional art forms of Manipur. Her training spans various aspects of Manipuri dance, including Kartal Cholom under Oja Choubhal Singh, Nata Seishak under Oja Lakpati Singh, and Pung Cholom under Oja Birmangal Singh, all celebrated exponents of their fields.
Over the years, Latasana has performed at numerous prestigious festivals in India and abroad, showcasing the depth and beauty of Manipuri dance. Her performances have graced events such as the Khajuraho and Nishagandhi festivals and venues in countries like the USA, UK, Mexico, France, and Japan. She has also performed for international dignitaries, including at the BRICS and BRIMTEC summits. Beyond her performances, she has choreographed acclaimed productions like Nachom, Ishanou, and Madhur Ras, and remains closely associated with the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai.
Her contributions to Manipuri dance have been recognised through numerous honours, including the Sringarmani title from Sur Sringar Samsad, Mumbai, and the Bharat Ratna Atalshree Samman in 2021. She also holds diplomas such as Nartan Alankar and Nartan Visharad from Manipuri Nartanalaya and has been felicitated with titles like Guru Abhibadan and Tarang Ratna. In 2024, she received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, cementing her position as a leading figure in Indian classical dance. She is an empanelled artiste with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and a Top Grade artiste for Doordarshan National Television.
Latasana’s dedication to Manipuri dance extends beyond performance. She has organised national and international dance festivals, conducted workshops, and mentored students to carry forward this legacy. With a B.A. in Political Science from SNDT University, Mumbai, she balances her artistic and academic pursuits. As the founder of Kaina Foundation and Vice President of Katchaba, she continues to inspire new generations, ensuring that the rich cultural traditions of Manipur are celebrated and preserved for years to come.
