Manipuri
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One of India’s classical dances, known for its gentle, flowing movements and its Ras Lila performances of the love of Radha and Krishna.
ClassicalWhere: ManipurOccasion: Ras Lila on full-moon nights in temples, festivals and the stage
| Performed by | Women as Radha and the gopis, a boy or woman as Krishna; men in the vigorous pung and kartal dances |
|---|---|
| Costume | Potloi: a stiff, barrel-shaped embroidered skirt with mirror work, a velvet blouse and a fine veil; Krishna wears yellow with a peacock-feather crown |
| Music and instruments | Pung (drum), kartal, cymbals, flute and devotional songs, often in Manipuri, Sanskrit and Brajabuli |
How it is performed
- The performance begins with a ritual invocation and the sankirtana singers and pung players setting the mood.
- Dancers enter with soft, rounded movements; the feet are placed lightly and never stamped, and the body sways in curves.
- Krishna and the gopis enact episodes of the Ras Lila through gestures and expressions, with the face kept serene.
- In the circle dance of the Ras, the gopis move around Krishna in a slow, graceful round.
- The performance ends with prayers and the offering of lamps.
Significance
The Ras Lila took its classical form under Maharaja Bhagyachandra (Rajarshi Bhagyachandra) in the 18th century. Manipuri is one of the eight classical dances recognised by the Sangeet Natak Akademi and is still performed as worship in Manipur’s temples.