Martial art brings a kind of discipline in life. It awakens the inner strength in an individual, believes the martial art expert Bishwajit Singh. These days the Bhopal young theatre aspirants are learning the martial arts ‘Thang-ta’ of Manipur. Bishwajit Singh is a martial art expert from Manippur, who is training the students in Thang-ta. He is conducting the session in a theatre ballet workshop organised by Chaitnya Socio and Cultural Society at Utkal Bhavan.
Notably, the aspirants are preparing a ballet on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, for which they are learning the art form. Also known as Huyel langlon, it is the art of the sword and the spear. While speaking about the art, the expert said, “Thang -Ta is a cultural heritage art of Manipur. In this art, movements of sword intended to ward off evil spirits is shown while other dance moves indicate protections. From past few years, Thang-ta is excessively used in the art of theatres making the dramas even more expressive.”
The young aspirants have learned the art with the bamboo sticks and the swords as well.
Along with the traditional Manipuri art form, the aspirants also learned the traditional art of China i.e. Tai Chi. Tai Chi helps reduce stress and anxiety.
Tai Chi is also known for promoting serenity through gentle and flowing movements. With the health benefits, Tai Chi has become a part of theatre world.
While talking to The Pioneer, renowned ballet choreographer Shruti Kirti said, “We are preparing a dance ballet ‘Bas Ab Aur Nahi’ which focuses on the attacks of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and Thang-ta will be a part of it.”
Elaborating further she said, “This will be a really powerful ballet as it includes the struggle of the people, the mixed emotions of the survivors and the fight with the situations.”
The ballet is being choreographed by Chandra Madhav Barik and is directed by Shruti Kirti. The ballet will be performed on March 21 at Utkal Bhavan.