In Manipuri dance traditions, consider the following statements and choose the correct option:
1. Samkirtana is one of the main styles of Manipuri dance.
2. Rasalila is not a part of Manipuri dance traditions.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is 1 only.
Explanation:
☛ Statement 1 is correct: Sankirtana (Samkirtana) is one of the primary traditional performance styles of Manipuri dance, involving devotional singing, drumming, and dancing primarily by male performers.
☛ Statement 2 is incorrect: Rasalila is the core and most famous theme of the Manipuri classical dance tradition, depicting the divine love and pastimes of Radha and Krishna.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ UNESCO Recognition: Sankirtana of Manipur was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013.
☛ Costume: The stiff, cylindrical skirt worn by female dancers during Rasalila is called Kumil (or Potloi).
☛ Royal Patronage: Maharaja Bhagyachandra (Ningthou Ching-Thang Khomba) composed the classic Manipuri Rasalilas and designed the Kumil costume in the 18th century.
☛ Key Elements: Manipuri dance features both gentle, graceful movements (Lasya) and vigorous, rhythmic jumps and acrobatics (Tandava), as seen in Pung Cholom and Kartal Cholom.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ In which year was Sankirtana of Manipur inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list? → 2013
☛ What is the unique cylindrical skirt worn by female dancers in Manipuri Rasalila called? → Kumil (Potloi)
☛ Which energetic Manipuri dance involves acrobatics while playing a traditional drum? → Pung Cholom
☛ Which 18th-century king is credited with systematizing the Manipuri Rasalila? → Maharaja Bhagyachandra
☛ The renowned Jhaveri sisters are associated with which classical dance form? → Manipuri dance