Northeast Desk, 10th March: Manipur is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, especially through performing arts like Raas Leela and Nat Sankirtan. However, the state’s traditional visual art, particularly ‘Subika’ painting, remains relatively unknown and is on the verge of extinction. Artist and academician Yumnam Sapha Wangam Apanthoi is leading efforts to revive and preserve this unique art form.
Subika painting, derived from Manipuri manuscripts called ‘Puya,’ dates back centuries and is considered one of the earliest visual art forms of Manipur. Despite its historical significance, knowledge about Subika painting is scarce due to limited access to the manuscripts.
Yumnam Sapha Wangam Apanthoi, currently an assistant professor at Manipur University’s Department of Fine Arts, embarked on a mission to resurrect Subika painting after being introduced to it during his college days. Inspired by the cultural activist Mutua Bahadur and historian RK Somorjit, he delved deeper into Subika painting while pursuing his master’s degree.
His dedication bore fruit, with his Subika illustrations being featured in books like “And That is Why” and “Feathers, Fools and Farts: Manipuri Folktales Retold.” These books, authored by Somi Roy and co-authored by Thangjam Hindustani Devi, showcase Manipuri mythology and folktales with Sapha’s illustrations.
The recent release of “Feathers, Fools and Farts: Manipuri Folktales Retold” at the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, by Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi, marked a significant milestone for Sapha and his Subika art.
Subika manuscripts, categorized into six types, provide insights into Meitei community history, beliefs, and culture. Recognizing its importance, the National Mission for Manuscripts of India documented Manipur Subika manuscripts in 2006.
Sapha emphasizes the urgent need to promote and preserve Subika painting to ensure Manipur’s representation through visual arts. He suggests incorporating Subika painting into school syllabi and encourages young artists to delve into research, elevating Manipuri visual arts on national and international platforms.
Recipient of the Manipur State Kala Academy award in 2006, Dr. Yumnam Sapha Wangam Apanthoi’s relentless efforts underscore the cultural significance and potential of Subika painting in preserving Manipur’s rich heritage.
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