Manipuri artiste Lakhan Sinha with laurels galore counting his days

Special Correspondent

SILCHAR: Distinguished Manipuri Mridangam master and Nritya guru Lakhan Sinha of Patharkandi in Karimganj district who projected the Indian dance form before the world is now counting his days without any recognition from the State. No more is heard the sonorous sound of his Mridanga hanging from his neck nor the sweet lyrics of his ghungroo in feet (anklet bells). Lakhan Sinha represented the country in various musical and cultural concerts across the continents.

The classical artist spent his early years in the tranquil village of Nayadahar of Patharkandi, giving guidance and training to the young learners of his art. He subsequently moved to Silchar and joined great masters like Nilmadhab Singh, guru Bipin Singh and Senarik Rajumar. With these maestros, he went to New Delhi and presented his artistic talent at many a cultural meet. Before his sojourn to the capital of India, he learnt the art of mridangam in its varied postures and gestures from guru Surya Mani Singh.

At Delhi, Lakhan Sinha in his quest for his art form leant more about it from other masters. He also got the opportunity to work for Song and Drama division of DDK. It was during his stint with DDK, he presented Kathak, Odisha, Manipuri dance form in his own genre and earned appreciation. He also presented dance-drama on many occasions and showed his talent in its best that brought him more in limelight. He is still praised for introducing Manipuri 'mayur dance,' known for its art, creativity and action that add to its vibrancy.

His family sources say during the time of Lal Bahadur Shastri as union minister with whom Lakhan Sinha had close rapport, he used to get invitation from different organisations to present his music and dance performance. Even film producers and directors of Bombay used to be in touch with him and take his advice for Manipuri dance and music. His student disciples are spread in Barak Valley, Tripura, Guwahati, Delhi and Bangladesh. Quite sad, such an artist is now counting his days being afflicted with age old ailments. Should not the State think of Lakhan Sinha and honour him, decorated with so many plaudits and laurels?

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