Akhu Chingangbam

Akhu Chingangbam is a poet, singer, song-writer who has come to be known as the face of the folk-rock band from Imphal, aptly called Imphal Talkies, formed in 2008. Since its inception, Akhu has been regularly performing in and out of Delhi, placing the band and him in a prominent spot on the Indian music scene. The intensity of his lyrics conveys the angst of an existence trapped in the turmoil of violence rampant in the state of Manipur, ironically referred to as the Jewel of India. These are often interestingly juxtaposed with music that has a hint of nostalgia and the fragrance of memory, symbolic of a deep attachment to cultural roots and identity. Songs like “AFSPA”, “India, I See Blood in Your Hands”, “Eche”, “Qutub Minar: Tale of a Dream”, “Lullaby”, among others, are reflective of the socio-political context of Manipur, weaving together tales of extreme violence and violation as well as modes of resistance (fictional and non-fictional) devised to fight them. In all, the songs produced by the group can be said to fall under the umbrella term of ‘Protest Music’.

Akhu also appeared on the second season of The Dewarists following his collaboration with the Asian Dub Foundation. His endeavour, the Imphal Music Project, seeks to further collaboration between musicians across the world, making their passion for music a point of contact between them. The first chapter of the Project included Rahul Ram from Indian Ocean and Guru Rewben Mashangwa, known for his role in the development of ‘Naga Folk Blues’. As revealed on its Facebook page, the second episode of the Project involves guitarist/singer Summit Attempt (Sumit Bhattacharya) based in Mumbai, with Sunil on drums, Shankar handling Bass and Devadutta providing Vocals.