New Delhi: In a celebration of the rich cultural tapestry of Manipur, the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), in collaboration with Penguin & Imasi Foundation, recently organized an engaging interaction with authors L. Somi Roy & Dr. Thangjam Hindustani Devi. The event centered around their book titled “Feathers, Fools and Farts,” a creative retelling of Manipuri folktales. This initiative is part of NGMA’s ongoing efforts to transform libraries into vibrant spaces for creative discussions.
The NGMA’s Education and Research Department has been committed to presenting modules in an interactive and interdisciplinary manner, making educational experiences both enriching and engaging. The event marked a milestone in the institution’s journey of turning libraries into dynamic centers for informal learning and creative discourses.
“Feathers, Fools and Farts” offers an intriguing glimpse into Manipuri folklore, presented in a captivating narrative style. The book’s illustrations not only complement the tales but also showcase the profound visual culture of Manipur, specifically through the indigenous art form of Subika painting of the Meitei community.
During the session at the NGMA Library, Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State for Culture and External Affairs, delivered a special reading of an excerpt from the book. Emphasizing the significance of libraries, she shared nostalgic memories of how books, a library, and a cup of coffee used to complete her day. She articulated her vision for libraries as vital institutions and expressed confidence that NGMA’s library would play a crucial role in the cultural landscape.
Director-General Shri Sanjeev Kishore Gautam, mentoring the NGMA’s educational programs, highlighted the importance of books and cultivating reading habits across all age groups. Acknowledging the prevalence of technology, he stressed the core role of mental well-being, especially for children. Dr. Gautam announced NGMA’s commitment to regular series of book readings with students from schools, colleges, and universities, fostering libraries as hubs for meaningful conversations.
The storytelling session holds particular significance as it showcases the commendable efforts of Roy and Hindustani Devi in integrating Manipuri folktales into mainstream literature. The illustrations, inspired by the Meitei community’s Subika painting, add an extra layer of authenticity to the cultural narrative.
As NGMA continues to evolve its libraries into more than just silent reading spaces, this event serves as a beacon for the transformative power of informal learning and the seamless integration of art, culture, and literature. The institution’s commitment to hosting diverse educational programs affirms its dedication to becoming a catalyst for intellectual and cultural exploration.