Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
IMPHAL: The highly anticipated India Pavilion 2024-25, happening at the Global Village Dubai since 16th October 2024 to 10th May 2025, will celebrate India’s rich cultural diversity. Among the major attractions, the pavilion will feature a special performance by Benita Laishram, a renowned folk singer from Manipur who has captivated audiences worldwide.
A Beacon of Manipuri Folk Music, Benita Laishram, 24 rose to fame as the 4th Position Winner of “Bharat Ka Amrit Kalash”, India’s first national folk song reality show organized by Doordarshan Kendra (DDK) and sponsored by the Ministry of Arts and Culture, Government of India (GOI). This groundbreaking initiative aimed to revive and promote traditional Indian folk music and arts, providing a platform for regional talent like Benita to shine on a national stage.
Her soulful renditions have not only resonated with audiences in India but also earned her a place on international platforms. Her performance at the India Pavilion 2024-25 is expected to be a cultural highlight, bringing the unique sounds of Manipur to a global audience.
The Ministry of Arts and Culture, GOI, plays a pivotal role in supporting initiatives like the India Pavilion to showcase India’s arts and heritage on a global scale. Through programs such as “Bharat Ka Amrit Kalash” and platforms like Global Village Dubai, the government continues to promote India’s cultural diversity and artistic excellence to the world.
As part of the pavilion’s nightly Indian Cultural Festival, Benita will perform alongside various other artists representing the arts, crafts, and traditions of India. The festival will run daily from 7 PM to 10 PM, featuring categories such as dance performances (Duo/Group), fashion shows, Singing (Solo/Duo/Group).
Benita Laishram’s performance, set to take center stage, promises to be an unforgettable experience, highlighting the Ministry of Arts and Culture’s dedication to fostering India’s creative legacy.
Hailing from the culturally vibrant state of Manipur, Benita has dedicated her career to preserving and promoting Manipuri folk traditions. She is a “B” Grade artist at All India Radio Imphal station. She completed Diploma from Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy. She once represented Manipur at the 19th Celebrating north east India festival held at Istanbul, Turkey. She also won the Best Female Singer title at the 9th Nongin Manipur Music Video competition 2024 organized by Film Forum Manipur at MSFDS. She has a unique trait to perform in varied dialect ushering unity, love, peace and diversity in the state.
