The Yumjao Mayum Living Art Academy showcased Manipur’s traditional Rasa 64 at Ramji Prabhu Mandir in Wangkhei Ningthem Pukhri Mapal, as part of a new production supported under the Chief Ministergi Artistesingi Tengbang (CMAT) 2025–26.
The programme opened with a floral tribute to Padma Shri awardee Sougaijam Thanil, whose contribution to Manipur’s artistic traditions was remembered by the organisers.
Speaking at the programme, academy secretary Yumnam Bhumeshwar said the tradition of Rasa has its roots in the ancient Natya Shastra. He explained that eight Rasas were recognised in the earlier tradition, while the later inclusion of Shanta Rasa brought the number to nine.
According to Bhumeshwar, the Rasa 64 tradition was introduced in Manipur during the reign of Maharaj Chandrakirti under the influence of the Gaudiya Vaishnavite tradition associated with Gouranga Mahaprabhu.
He expressed concern over the gradual decline of the traditional art form, noting that the number of people practising and preserving the 64 Rasa tradition has reduced over time.
Bhumeshwar said the academy’s initiative was intended to revive the practice and protect an important part of Manipur’s cultural heritage. He stressed the need to ensure that the tradition is passed on to younger generations so that it does not disappear.
The academy said it plans to organise similar programmes in the coming years as part of its efforts to promote, preserve and revive traditional Rasa practices across the state.
