Shumang Leela

Shumang Leela
 

News: This article is based on “Shumang Leela: The art of Gender-Bending” covered recently in a newspaper.

What is Shumang Leela?
 Shumang Leela is a traditional form of theatre in Manipur.
 ‘Shumang’ means ‘open courtyard’ and ‘leela’ means play and literal meaning of Shumang leela is “play of the open courtyard”.
 The roles of female artists are all played by male actors (who are called Nupi Shabis) and male characters are played
by female artists in case of female theatre groups.
 Shumang Leela started as a comic genre presented before the kings and noblemen, which ultimately developed into the present form of courtyardenacted play. The groups of those days attempted to preserve and promote humanism, tolerance, confidence, devotion, truth and justice through their performances.
 It has, today, developed both theatrically and artistically.
 It has become a powerful medium for mass education besides giving entertainment and relaxation.
 It has also been trying to strengthen the bond of brotherhood and friendship among various communities in the State.
 The plays also serve as a medium to spread awareness among people of social, political and economic issues. Shumang Leelas may also discuss moral values, unity and integrity.