Manipuri - Manipuri Classical Dance

 Manipuri - Manipuri Classical Dance

Manipuri is the classical dance from the north East Indian state of Manipur.  Its themes are devotional and are performed on religious occasions and in temples throughout the area.  It is even often referred to as "sankirtan".  The term Manipuri actually covers a number of dance forms from the region.  The most important being the Ras Lila and the Pung Cholom.

Origin of Manipuri Dance

In the quiet north-eastern corner of India, where the majestic Himalayas coils toward the sea, the brilliant valley of Manipur, the jeweled city lies with its sheer grace and charm. Manipur is the home of the Meities, the artistic race who since ages have redefined their lifestyle amidst the expression and appreciation of art and indeed through the grace of their Nritya and lasya. The Meities love to dance. All their delights and grieves, desires, hopes and aspirations, are interpreted through their dance. Their lovely, cadenced yet carefully-disciplined movements create their own vivid imagery, while bringing out the unedited realisms of life. It was against this background Manipuri dance evolved and later developed as a distinct dance form in India.