Manipuri Dance: Origin, Costume, Features & Different Styles (UPSC Notes)

Manipuri Dance form is one of India's most ancient classical dance forms. It is one of the eight major Indian classical dance forms and has its roots in the northeastern state of Manipur in India. The Manipuri classical dance is also referred to as the Manipuri Raas Leela. 

Manipuri Dance UPSC is one of the most important topics for the UPSC IAS Examination. It covers a significant part of the Art & Culture subject in the UPSC mains General Studies Paper-1 syllabus in general studies paper -1 of the UPSC Prelims Syllabus.

In this article on Manipur Dance Form UPSC, we shall discuss its features, themes, varieties, instruments, costumes, and dancers.

About Manipuri Dance 

Manipuri classical dance is a traditional classical dance form that originated in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur. It is known for its grace, fluidity, and delicate movements. These are inspired by the rich cultural traditions and religious practices of Manipur. Manipuri dance is deeply rooted in the Vaishnavite tradition. It is often performed as a devotional offering to Lord Krishna. The dance form is characterized by its gentle footwork, hand gestures (mudras), expressive facial expressions, and elaborate costumes that include vibrant traditional attire and intricate jewelry.

Origin of Manipuri Dance Form

• Manipuri dance has a rich and ancient history dating back to the 2nd century CE. This makes it one of the oldest classical dance forms in India.
• It has evolved through various historical influences, including the migration of people from neighboring regions like Bengal and Assam, as well as interactions with Southeast Asian cultures.
• The royal patronage of the Manipuri kings and queens played a significant role in the development and preservation of the dance form over the centuries.

Check out this article on the Sattriya dance.

Features of Manipuri Dance

• Manipuri dance form is known for its graceful and fluid movements, which are often described as being wave-like. The dancers' bodies move in a continuous and flowing manner, with no sudden or jerky movements.
• Mudras, or hand gestures, are an important part of Manipuri dance. The dancers use a variety of mudras to convey different emotions and ideas.
• The facial expressions used in Manipuri dance are typically subtle and restrained. The dancers avoid making exaggerated or over-the-top expressions.
• Manipuri dancers do not wear ankle bells, which is in contrast to other classical Indian dance forms. This allows the dancers to move more freely and gracefully.
• Manipuri dance is divided into two main categories: Tal Rasak and Danda Rasak.
  • Tal Rasak is a softer and more lyrical form of dance. 
  • Danda Rasak is more vigorous and acrobatic.
• Manipuri dance often depicts themes from Hindu mythology, especially the story of Radha and Krishna. However, there are also many Manipuri dances that are based on folk tales and legends.

Check out this article on the Kathakali dance.

Manipuri Dance Costumes

Manipuri dance costumes are renowned for their elegance and vibrant colors, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Manipur. Female dancers typically wear the traditional attire called "Potloi," a gracefully flared skirt adorned with intricate embroidery and mirrors, along with a velvet blouse and a translucent veil. Male dancers wear the "Dhoti" and "Kurta," often accompanied by a white turban, all contributing to the ethereal and serene charm of the dance. These costumes not only enhance the visual appeal but also play a crucial role in conveying the dance's spiritual and storytelling aspects.

• Potloi: A long, fitted skirt made of heavy silk or cotton fabric. The Potloi is decorated with intricate embroidery, often in floral or geometric patterns.
• Blouse: A tight-fitting garment that covers the upper torso. The blouse is typically made of a lighter fabric than the skirt and is decorated with simpler embroidery.
• Veil: A sheer fabric that covers the dancer's face. The veil is typically held in place by a headband or a flower.
• Leitreng: A long scarf that is worn over the shoulder. The Leitreng is typically made of a lightweight fabric and is decorated with embroidery or tassels.
• Feichom: A small, circular ornament that are worn on the forehead. The Feichom is typically made of gold or silver and is decorated with pearls or gemstones.
• Koknam: A type of nose ring that is worn on the right nostril. The Koknam is typically made of gold or silver and is decorated with pearls or gemstones.
• Pasuan: A type of ankle bracelet that is worn on both ankles. The Pasuan is typically made of gold or silver and is decorated with bells or other ornaments.
• Khangoi: A type of head jewelry that is worn on the top of the head. The Khangoi is typically made of gold or silver and is decorated with pearls or gemstones.
• Ghunghroo: A type of bell that is tied around the ankles and wrists. The Ghunghroo makes a jingling sound when the dancer moves.
• Chura: A set of bangles that is worn on the wrists and forearms. The Chura is typically made of gold, silver, or glass.
• Koktombi: A type of earring that is worn on the lobes of the ears. The Koktombi is typically made of gold or silver and is decorated with pearls or gemstones.
• Meikhumbi: A type of necklace that is worn around the neck. The Meikhumbi is typically made of gold or silver and is decorated with pearls or gemstones.

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Major divisions of Manipuri Dance

The below mentioned are some of the major divisions of manipuri classical dance:

Jagoi

It is famous for its Manipuri Raas Leela dance, representing the Lasya element first mentioned in the Natya Shastra written by Bharata Muni. In this dance form, the legs are bent, and the knees are kept together. Also, the foot movements are less pronounced and loud than in India's other major classical dances.

Cholom

Cholom is a vibrant and energetic form of Manipuri dance. It showcases rhythmic movements, acrobatics, and the skillful use of percussive instruments. It is often performed as an introductory piece in Manipuri dance recitals. It is characterized by its dynamic footwork, leaps, and spins. Cholom incorporates elements of martial arts and is known for its fast-paced and rhythmic drumming. This adds an exciting and captivating element to the performance.

Check out the Kuchipudi dance form here.

Different Styles of Manipuri Dance

The Manipuri dance tradition is divided into two major styles: the classical style known as "Ras Lila" and the folk style known as "Lai Haraoba."

• Ras Lila focuses on the divine love story of Lord Krishna and the gopis (cowherd maidens). It portrays their interactions and emotional exchanges through graceful movements and expressions.
• Lai Haraoba depicts the mythical stories and legends of Manipur. It celebrates the indigenous deities and folklore of the region. It incorporates vibrant costumes, masks, and ritualistic elements.

Check out this article on the Classical dances of India.

Varieties of Manipuri Dance

Manipuri dance form encompasses various forms and genres, each with its unique characteristics and significance. Some prominent varieties include:

• Raas Leela: Depicts the Manipuri Raas Leela dance drama. This beautifully portrays Krishna's divine love and his playful interactions with the gopis.
• Thang-ta: Combines dance and martial arts. It features graceful movements and the skillful use of swords and spears.
• Pung Cholom: A form of Cholom dance that focuses on the rhythmic drumming and percussive elements. It showcases the skill and dexterity of the drummers.
• Nata Sankirtana: A devotional form of dance-drama performed by a group of male artists, accompanied by singing and storytelling.

Check out this article on the Kathak Dance.

Musical Instruments Used in Manipuri Classical Dance

Manipuri dance is accompanied by traditional music that enriches the performance. The following musical instruments are used:

• Pena: A stringed instrument made of bamboo and coconut or gourd.
• Khol: A two-sided drum played with the hands.
• Pung: A barrel-shaped drum providing rhythmic beats.
• Kartal: Small cymbals struck together for rhythmic accents.
• Jhal and Ramkartal: Larger and smaller cymbals create percussive effects.
• Theile: A bamboo flute producing melodious tunes.
• Selki: A horn made from the Mithun's horn, producing deep sounds.
• Goshem: A bamboo pipe instrument played by blowing air.

Check out this article on the Mohiniyattam dance.

Famous Manipuri Dancers 

Some of the famous Manipuri dancers include:

• Guru Bipin Singh
• Guru Amubi Singh
• Guru Rajkumar Singhajit Singh
• Guru Darshana Jhaveri
• Guru Kalavati Devi
• Yumlembam Gambhini Devi
• Nirmala Mehta
• Charu Mathur
• Nayana, Ranjana and Suvarna
• Devyani Chalia

Manipuri Dance Festival - Lai Haraoba

• It is a type of dance festival which is still celebrated in the state of Manipur.
• The roots of this dance form can be traced back to the pre-Vaishnavite era of the Manipur region.
• The real meaning of ‘Lai Haraoba’ is the ‘Merrymaking of the Gods.’
• The chief performers of this dance form are the priests and the priestesses, known as the ‘maibas‘ and ‘maibis, ‘respectively.
• This dance form is formed as a dance drama, and its central theme is based on the love stories of Lord Krishna and Radha, while other themes are also showcased.
• The festival of Lai Haraoba is usually celebrated by the Meitei community of Manipur and is also referred to as the ‘Festivity of the Gods.’
• When Vaishnavism arrived in Manipur in the 15th century CE, new compositions based on the life of Lord Krishna and Radha gradually got introduced into the Lai Haraoba dance forms.
• During the rule of King Bhagyachandra, the origination of the popular Manipuri Raas leela dances occurred.
• While under successive rulers, the new Leela, including the melodic and rhythmic compositions, was introduced.
• Manipur Culture is an amalgamation of both Indian and Southeastern cultures, and this combination is also visible in the dance form.

Check out this article on the Difference between classical dance and folk dance.

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We hope all your doubts regarding the Manipuri Dance will be cleared after going through this article. Ace your UPSC preparation with our UPSC Online Coaching, and download the Testbook App now to check out various other topics relevant to the UPSC IAS Exam.