Various forms of manipuri dance -1

The Vaishnava faith brought along with it the origin of the Manipuri dance. The repertoire is dominated by the themes from the Vishnu Puranas, Bhagvata Puranas, and Geeta Govinda. Slow and gracious movements differentiate Manipuri from other dance styles. The delicate arm movements and gentle foot work characterizes this dance form. Any form of jerks, sharp edges or straight lines in the dance is not seen, which is the only reason as to why Manipuri dance is known for its undulating and soft appearance. While the female 'Rasa' dances is based on the Radha-Krishna theme feature group ballets and solos, the male 'Sankirtana' dances are performed to the pulsating rhythm of the Manipuri Dholak and are full of vitality and energy.  The Raas Leela depicts the cosmic dance of Krishna and the cowherd maidens. The beautiful embroidered skirts of the dancers, long and flared from the waist, and the translucent veils, along with Krishna's costume with the tall peacock feather crown, add to the radiant appearance of this dance, as the performers sway and twirl to an ascending tempo. 

The Lai Haroba, a ritualistic dance depicting the Creation, is considered the precursor of Manipuri as seen today. The Lai Haroba is still an important living tradition, while Manipuri has expanded and gained popularity as a performing art in group and solo presentations. 

Among the important constituents of the Manipuri repertoire
another vibrant feature of Manipuri is the Pung Cholam or Drum dance, in which dancers play on the drum known as Pung while dancing with thrilling leaps and turns to a fast rhythm. http://www.webindia123.com/dances/Manipuri/technique.htm