Indian Classical Dance from Manipur, India – Manipuri Dance
What is a Manipuri Dance? Manipuri is a beautiful and well-known dance style of India which originates in the north-east state of Manipur.
The beauty of this dance form is the manner in which it draws from the lifestyle and culture of the people of Manipur.
Origin
It is believed that the Manipuri dance took its present form from the “Lai Haroba” dance which came before it.
Even though the Lai Haroba is still a big part of the tradition in Manipur, the Manipuri form has gained tremendous importance and is also one of the most well-known dances of India.
In the real sense, the term Manipuri dance is a term which is used to encompass all the different dance styles which are native to Manipur.
Manipuri Dance Theme & Technique
The signature style of the Manipuri style lies in its circular movements. It is performed as a solo as well as a group dance. The main theme of this dance is Lord Krishna’s Raas Leela which represents Lord Krishna’s dance with his gopis.
The Manipuri dancers are known for their graceful and delicate steps. Soft, light music further adds to the beauty and creates an ambience of happiness and tranquillity.
Manipuri dance is a beautiful mix of drama or abhinaya, soft dance steps and a charm that is truly poetic in nature.
ALSO READ: Famous Dances of India
Dance Costumes
Manipuri dancers wear very beautiful and colorful costumes, especially the women. The men wear white colored dhotis and the angavastra while the women wear eye-catching costumes which consist of a long, straight or cylindrical shaped skirt, blouse, and a translucent veil or headcover.
The use of golden zari borders is another signature element that contributes to the beauty of this dance costume.
Music and Melody
Manipuri dance performances get their true flavour with accompanying musical instruments such as the Flute, Manjira, Gong, Dholak, etc.
Famous Manipuri Dancers
Some of the well-known masters of this dance form include
Sohini Ray
Bibhaboti Devi
Guru Bipin Singha
Kalabati Devi
Preeti Patel
Guru Bipin Singha
Contributions are Invited Are you a Manipuri Dancer? To add greater value to this page, we invite you to contribute your picture in your traditional dance costume for inclusion on this webpage.
We’ll surely add your name under the picture as a token of thanks. Email us at [email protected]
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