With reference to Manipuri classical dance which of the following statements is correct?
a) Lai Haraoba is the earliest form of Manipuri dance.
b) Ras, Sankirtana and Thang-Ta are the most popular forms of this dance.
c) Manipuri dance has its origin in the Jain traditional dance form.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Both a and b.
(a) Lai Haraoba is the earliest form of Manipuri dance – CORRECT
Lai Haraoba, meaning "merry-making of the gods," is the oldest and most ritualistic form of Manipuri dance. It portrays cosmic creation stories and pays homage to Umang Lai (forest deities) in Manipur's Meitei culture.
(b) Ras, Sankirtana, and Thang-Ta are the most popular forms of this dance – CORRECT
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Ras Leela and Sankirtana are essential parts of Manipuri dance.
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Ras Leela: Represents the divine love between Krishna and Radha and is rooted in the Vaishnavite tradition.
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Sankirtana: Involves devotional singing and dancing in temples.
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Thang-Ta is not a dance form. It is a traditional Manipuri martial art that uses swords (Thang) and spears (Ta).
(c) Manipuri dance has its origin in the Jain traditional dance form – INCORRECT
Manipuri dance does not originate from Jain traditions. It has roots in indigenous Meitei culture and was later influenced by Vaishnavism during the 18th century under King Bhagyachandra.