Flavour of Manipur in Paleti
This February, Paleti at Nepalaya's R-Shala will have a different flavour of music. Shantanu Kumar Limbu from Manipur, Imphal has arrived to enchant the audience with Manipuri music.
Born in Kamglatumbi of Manipur in 1952, Shantanu was attracted to music from his early childhood and used to participate in local religious functions. His passion for music continued even after he joined the military service. He practiced music under the guidance of Mr. M.N. Chopela, a renowned classical singer.
He was the key person to organise a cultural programme "Manjari" which helped to preserve and nourish Nepali language and culture in Manipur. The programme has produced many successful music artistes in that region. Shantanu has remained passive after untimely demise of his friends, lyricist Padma Bahadur Rai and Jitendra Bardewa (Manipur).
Though many people in Nepal have not heard him, but the beauty of his compositions are, even when you hear his songs for the first time, you will feel that you have been hearing them forever because of the influence of Nepali folk and contemporary music. He will be singing some light romantic, ghazals and awareness songs. Apart from Nepali, he will render some Assamese and Manipuri numbers as well.
"I felt that I am amongst my family here," a man of jolly nature, Limbu cheerfully added.
"I am thankful that you have given me this opportunity. Since I happen to be the first one to represent that region, I will leave no stones unturned to make it a memorable evening."
Various music artistes from Nepal and India have performed in Paleti since last three years.
"After expanding to Darjeeling last year, Paleti has reached North East in 2008, where the guests are received with very warm affection. I am confident that Shantanu dai will get the same affection and acceptance from our audience in Nepal." Singer, composer and the coordinator of Paleti, Aavaas said. nepalnews.com Feb 24 08
