Art and culture of Manipur

Manipur has a wide collection of notable art and cultural displays.

## Performing Arts[edit]

### Thang Ta[edit]

Thang Ta is a martial art form of Manipur, existing since time immemorial. The art is associated with swords and spears. For defence, a shield is mostly used.

### Manipuri Raas Leela[edit]

Manippuri dance

Manipuri Raas Leela is the classical dance of Indian state of Manipur, with its main theme being devotion to god Krishna. It depicts the Raslila pastime of Krishna with Radha and gopis.[1]

### Lai Haraoba[edit]

Lai Haraoba is the traditional religious festival, celebrated in regards to the holy sacred groves Umang Lai of the state.

### Shumang Kumhei[edit]

Shumang Kumhei is a traditional form of theater, originated in the state. four open air form, with a 13×13 sq. ft. of area.

## Literature[edit]

Meitei literature has its earliest roots of existence dating back to around 11th century AD.[citation needed]

The ancient Manipuri literary works are done in Puya (Meitei texts) written in Meitei script.

Some of the prominent writers of Meitei literature are:

* M. K. Binodini Devi
* Khwairakpam Chaoba

A Meitei PuYa

## Indigenous Religion[edit]

Manipur is the home to the ancient indigenous religion of Sanamahism, a Polytheism of thousands of deities.[citation needed]

Pakhangba, the dragon Lord of Manipur

A pair of Kanglasha dragons at Kangla Palace, Manipur

## Folklore[edit]

### Folk dances[edit]

* Khamba-Thoibi Dance
* Thabal chongba
* Pung cholom
* Manipuri Sankirtana

## Festivals[edit]

Several ethnic groups in the state, celebrates various festivals throughout the year. A few of them are:

* Lai Haraoba
* Cheiraoba
* Yaosang
* Ningol Chakouba
* Panthoibi Iratpa
* Imoinu Iratpa
* Mera Hou Chongba
* Mera Chaorel Houba
* Sanamahi Ahong Khong Chingba
* Kwaak Taanba
* Heikru Hidongba
* Gaan-Ngai

## Sports[edit]

Forms of indigenous sports are:

* Yubi Lakpi
* Mukna
* Khong kangjei

## See also[edit]

* Art forms of Manipur
* Meitei mythology
* Tourist attractions in Manipur

## References[edit]

1. ^ James G. Lochtefeld (2002). The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism: A-M. The Rosen Publishing Group. pp. 420–421. ISBN 978-0-8239-3179-8.

## External links[edit]

* Manipur Government Website