Ewai Music Education Initiative in Relief Camp
In a state torn by generations of armed conflict and geo-political crisis, people often take to art to heal, to express and reimagine a better world for themselves
In a state torn by generations of armed conflict and geo-political crisis, people often take to art to heal, to express and reimagine a better world for themselves
And art therefore, has not failed to play its part especially in times of crisis. At the backdrop of the Manipur (Northeast India) conflict that has lasted more than a year, Matai Society has collaborated on various trauma informed art activities including Ri Ya Ri with SIYOM, an art project with children at relief camps culminating into a music video sung and performed by the children called “Telanga”.
Moving ahead, Matai Society and Harmony Manipur are together bringing music classes to be led by Harmony_Manipur’s Kamlesh khundrakpam (Kamlesh is also a member of Imphal based band THE KOI). The music classes are held every week at the Matai Society, a space close to multiple relief camps, especially Khoyol Keithel Relief camp. The project is envisioned to be long term and provide space, platform, mentorship and creative collaborations to children and youth affected by conflict.
These young children originally from various parts of Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts were displaced in May 2023. Their houses were burnt and destroyed and currently they live in community run relief camps. This project is an attempt to provide safe spaces, emotionally well-being and nurture creativity to these children. A total of 40 children are involved in the project.
