The people of Manipur are inherently passionate about art and beauty. The extraordinary handwoven fabrics and artisanal handicrafts made by the people, which are prized around the world for their unique designs, vibrant colours, and usefulness, are examples of how their creative and imaginative spirit manifests itself. Each ethnic group upholds distinct cultures and traditions, which are celebrated through dance, music, clothes, customs, and hobbies. The captivating traditional dances of the ethnic groups are mesmerizing, dressed in seductive clothes, accompanied by a polished yet graceful cadence, and they provide the people of Manipur with a great sense of pride. In this article, you’ll know about the Important Folk Dances of Manipur with Pictures.
Important Folk Dances of Manipur
Check the most common but important folk dances of Manipur from the below table.
| Dance form | Description |
|---|---|
| Ballet and Drama | Ballet and drama are classical forms of dance that combine storytelling, music, and movement. In Manipur, ballet and drama often depict mythological stories, historical events, and cultural narratives through expressive gestures, elaborate costumes, and rhythmic footwork. It is characterized by intricate hand movements, graceful postures, and synchronized group performances. |
| Goura Lila | Goura Lila is a traditional dance-drama performed during the Lai Haraoba festival in Manipur. It portrays the story of the divine cowherd, Krishna, and his playful interactions with the cowherd girls, known as gopis. The dancers wear colorful costumes and adorn themselves with traditional jewelry. |
| Holi | Holi is a vibrant and joyous dance performed during the Holi festival in Manipur. It celebrates the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. Dancers smear colored powders on each other, creating a lively atmosphere. |
| Thabal Chongba | Thabal Chongba is a popular folk dance of Manipur performed during the Yaoshang festival. Young men and women form a circle, holding hands and dancing in rhythmic steps to the beats of drums and cymbals. |
| Pung Cholom | Pung Cholom is a classical dance form of Manipur that combines music, rhythm, and acrobatic movements. It is performed with the Manipuri drum called “pung,” which is played by the main dancer. |
Folk Dances of Manipur with Pictures
One of India’s six classical dance forms, Manipuri is regarded as one of the world’s most modest, gentle, and meek dances, as well as one of the most deeply meaningful. Manipur, an Indian state in the northeast, is where it originated. Here, we’ve provided several folk dances of Manipur with Pictures where you get more insights about the dance culture of Manipur.
Ballet and Drama
Another vibrant aspect of Manipuri culture is ballet or dance drama. Theatre and Jatra hold the distinction of being the most important cultural and creative expressions throughout the last few decades. Maharaj Churachand Singha supported the arts during his reign in accordance with Manipuri tradition by providing both men and money. The old tradition may be carried on in the modern Manipuri theatre. Comedians who are inspired by the appearance and performance style of Phagi Lilas introduce them. Dance-dramas like Nimai-Sonyas, Sita-Horon, Nouka-Bilash, Savitri-Styban, Chandrajini, and Harishchandra are available.
Goura Lila
Performed by boys of the age bracket of 8 and 10 years, representing Sri Chaitanya’s Lila like meeting the Keshav Vharati, saving jogai – madhai, Touching scenes of Vishnu Priya Separation etc.
Holi
The Dol Yatra’s Holi singing opened a new chapter in Manipur’s history of dance and song. Singers, drummers, and instrumentalists performed the Krishna themes in Basanta Raga at the gatherings. They do it one by one in rapid succession in a very constrained amount of time without receiving any kind of reward.
Thabal Chongba
Thabol Chongba is the most elegant and attractive dance in Manipuri Meithei. Literally translated as “moonlight jump,” Thabo Chongba. Hundreds of the village’s youth congregate there. The flute, the drums, and the cymbals begin to play as soon as the moon begins to rise above the hills.
Pung Cholom
Pung Cholom, also known as The Mridangam Dance, The Dhumal Dance, or The Dram Dance, may combine sound and movement, with the latter requiring acrobatic skills. While performing, the dancers themselves play the Mridangam (Pung). King Chandra Keerthi Singh added some compositions and played a key role in the introduction of 64 pung dances, or drum dances, in the year 1850 AD.
Nata Pala
In Manipuri fine arts, Vaishnava Pala Kirtana using Dhak and Kartal has become the hottest thing. The Manipuri form of dance and music is characterized by the dance also known as Kartal Cholom or Cymbal Dance. This dance starts out with calm, gentle motions before picking up speed. It is a group performance of male partners who sing and dance to the music of the traditional classical drum “Dhak” while playing cymbals and donning enormous turbans shaped like snowballs.
Kamba Thoibi
Kamba-Thoibi is a duet dance which performed either as an element of Lai- Harouba or independently. This dance typically represents the Tandava and Lsya aspects of the Laiharouba movements. within the Kamba -Thoibi tells the story of Kamba, a poor brave lad of the Khumal clan who feels crazy with Thoibi, a princess of Morang.In the 15th century AD, Kamba, a prince of the previously routed Khumal royalty fell in love with Thoibi – a princess of the Moirang clan. The union is to the political advantage of both Khumals and Moirangs.
Folk Dances of Manipur FAQs
Manipuri folk dances hold significant cultural and religious importance in the state. They are considered a way to preserve and showcase the rich heritage and traditions of Manipur. These dances often have mythological or religious themes, and they are performed during festivals, ceremonies, and special occasions.
The costumes worn in Manipuri folk dances are colorful and elaborate. Female dancers wear traditional Manipuri attire called Phanek, which is a wraparound skirt, along with a matching blouse and ornate headgear.
Yes, anyone with an interest in Manipuri folk dances can learn and participate in them. There are dance academies, cultural institutions, and experienced teachers who offer training in Manipuri folk dances.
There are typically no specific age restrictions for learning Manipuri folk dances. People of all ages, from children to adults, can learn and participate in these dance forms.
While Manipuri folk dances have their roots in Manipur, they are not limited to the state alone. These dance forms have gained popularity and recognition beyond the region and are performed in various parts of India and even internationally.