Imphal :: Culture of Manipur

 

Manipur has a distinct culture that evokes a lot of fascination and curiosity among tourists. The culture of Imphal and its state Manipur is something that has been restricted within the state since the area has a secluded existence, withdrawn from the real world. The people of Manipur are enthusiastic, polite and hospitable. The people in Imphal are drawn to theater and performing arts.

We all know about the famous Manipuri Dance, one of the most popular forms of Indian classical dance. "Ras-lila" or the dance of Radha and Krishna is usual the core of Manipuri Dance but the dances are often accompanied by cymbals known as "Manjira" or "Kartal" and double-headed drums called Manipuri Mridang or Pung to form a scintillating visual performance. It was Rabindranath Tagore, the famous poet, playwright and freedom fighter who popularized Manipuri dance outside the region.

The Ras Lila, that celebrates the never-ending love of Krishna towards Radha is usually performed at nights in a "mandop" in front of a temple and is watched by many. The performances can be of a varied, rhythmic nature. You will usually find people thronging at the Shree Govindajee temple at the Basant Purnima, Kartik Purnima and Sharad Purnima nights, and even at other temples. The music composition that accompanies Ras Lila can be in the form of a solo number, a duet or chorus group. The dance movements are light, graceful and subtle. The combination of the energetic singing, the rousing music and the beautiful dancing can be very appealing.

The art forms and cultural atmosphere of Imphal is getting world-wide recognition now and the fact that these classical dance forms remain indigenous to the Manipur culture, with its fascinating style and gestures, has made a lot of tourists look forward to these dances and events whenever they come to the city.

Apart from the Ras Lila dance, there is the Nupa Pala (Kartal cholom or Cymbal dance that is symbolized by cymbals. The dances are performed by male artists using cymbals and wearing white dhotis or "pheijom" and spherical turbans. The dancers perform to the rhythm of the "pung" or the Mridanga. Another important facet of Manipuri dance is the Khamba-Thoibi dance done in the form of a duet of male and female dancers. Most tourism packages also include a visit to the temples or places where such Manipuri dances are performed.

In Manipur, there is hardly a girl who cannot dance or sing. This place is brimming with talent. Almost every Manipuri is interested in creative arts and is musically inclined. The creativity also extends to love for crafts, which is why they excel in handicraft products and handloom. Manipuri handloom products are known world-wide for their detailed creations, designs, color combination, versatility, reliability and long-lasting quality. People who visit Manipur or Imphal usual buy bed sheets, shawls, curtains, screens, gowns and sarees; and many other products from this place. Though such things are available outside Manipur, but buying it directly from a place like Ima Keithel or the .Women.s Market. has its own charm.

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