Manipuri Dance
The various forms of Manipuri dance are
Ras Lila, Lai Harouba Dance and the energetic Pung Cholom. But the
internationally known one is Ras Lila where the dance receives
recognition and applause whenever there is a cultural meet in any part
of the world. This epitomises the Manipuri style of dance with the
skillful motion of the hands and maneuver of the body, slow and
rhythmic. The dance revolves on the love story of Lord Krishna and
Radha.
¤ Ras Lila
The traditional dance of Manipur culture based on the eternal love
story between Lord Krishna and Radha is one of the captivating
classical dance forms found in India. The delicate, lyrical and
graceful movements of this art form is the highlight of the dance. The
glitter of the hand-crafted costume of the dancers and uniform and
slow movement brings out a dance that is chastiest, modest, softest
and mildest but also meaningful.
¤ Lai Harouba (Celebration of the Gods)
Lai Harouba is the dance performed in worship of the Gods. When it
commences, a group of dancers move to the music with various skill
steps and weave patterns. Almost every girl in the state must have
performed once when the Lai Harouba takes place each year. Lai Harouba
is observed in every locality but the premiere celebration is the
Moirang's Lai Harouba where people from all over the state during
night to watch this spectacle.
¤ Pung Cholom
Pung, (a drum in native language), is the instrument that exudes all
the movement and the sound of this particular dance. A Tandav dance
form, where the dancers play the drum and simultaneously within time
cycles execute somersaults and acrobatic feats with a synchronized
choreography. The more dancers the more thrilled will be the audience.
The dress attire consist of Dhoti (a long cotton cloth) and a white
turban with the drum sling across the shoulders. When the dancers
somersaults, the drum also rotates along with the body with the drum
beats highlighting the rhythmic nature of a dance.
¤ Organising Cultural Shows
Regular cultural shows are organized in the city by 'Rupmahal Artists'
Association, Manipur Dramatic Union and Manipur State Kala Akadami.
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