Manipuri Nata Sankirtan showcased in fusion form through ‘Phamyei’ and ‘Jaydik’ in Imphal

Yumjao Mayum Living Art Academy on June 25 presented its latest production, Phamyei and Jaydik, offering a fusion interpretation of Manipur's traditional performing art, Nata Sankirtan.

 

The performance was held at Ramji Prabhu Mandir and was attended by several eminent personalities from the fields of art and culture.

 

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the event, Yumnam Bhumeshwor said Manipur is blessed with a rich cultural heritage that has earned global recognition, and the academy remains committed to preserving and promoting the state's traditional art forms.

 

He explained that Phamyei is a fusion of the traditional Meitei Pung with elements of Hindustani and Western music. The performance features a modified version of the Meitei Pung, adapted from the instrument used during the reign of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra.

 

According to Bhumeshwor, traditional Meitei Pungs were tied with leather straps made from indigenous cattle breeds. However, due to the decline in the local cattle population, artists have increasingly adopted straps made from jersey cow leather. The modified instrument has gained acceptance among performers for its improved sound quality and tonal scale.

 

Highlighting Jaydik, he said it is a traditional rhythmic sequence or taal of Nata Sankirtan that was institutionalised during the reign of Maharaj Chandrakirti. He noted that many members of the younger generation are unfamiliar with this classical rhythm, prompting the academy to revive and showcase it through the performance.

 

The presentation aimed to preserve, reinterpret and popularise Manipur's classical performing arts among contemporary audiences while maintaining their traditional essence.