MANIPURI DANCE, PART-2

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• published: 20 Nov 2012
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Manipur has a long and rich tradition of dance and music. The finest expression of the culture and way of life of the Manipuri people are reflected in these art forms. During periods of history, successive Kings patronized the arts. The Palace was the focal point of cultural activism, which today is a reflected in the rich Manipuri culture. With the advent of Vaishnavism during the 18th century A.D., a new wave of devotional cult of dance and music flowed in, of which the most eloquent is the Raas Leela. Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Maharaja (1763-1798 A.D.), the Saint King of Manipur, heralded a cultural renaissance in Manipur by introducing the Raas Leela. Manipuri dance hails from Manipur, a small state tucked in the north eastern corner of India enclosed by hills on all sides. The geographical seclusion of the land of Manipur has led to the carving of a distinct and unique cultural identity of the Manipuris and for centuries the people have preserved and nurtured their rich tradition of dance and music. Eminent dance critic and scholar Dr. Kothari said, "nowhere else in India are dance and music so closely interwoven with rituals and religious practice. One rarely comes across any Manipuri (Meitei) who does not know dance and music." The Indo-Mongoloid race (of which the Manipuris are a descendent) by nature is very artistic, deeply emotional and passionate. This disposition is reflected in all their art forms, be it performing art or visual art. Dance and music is an integral part of this culture, playing an important role in every aspect of life from religion to celebration of nature. Hence, they form an inevitable part of every social and religious ceremony. The movements of this dance are free flowing and lyrical like waves. The birth and the evolution of the inimitable cultural tradition have been beautifully illustrated in many myths and legends of Manipur that form the backbone of this artistic civilization.Whether it is the concept of Pakhangba (the snake biting its own tail) or themyth of Lord Shiva's trident giving birth to the beautiful valleys of Manipur, or the myths of creation by Guru Atiya Sidaba, Asiba, Laibunthou mapan and Lainura taret (the 9 Gods and the 7 Goddesses). The various legends of this land are copious and rich sources of the various performing It is indeed a very outstanding feature how the Manipuris have inseparably woven dance and music in their everyday life.