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Holi in Manipur: It is interesting to note how Holi is celebrated in Manipur (India). Here, the festivities continue for six days starting on the full moon day of Phalguna. It may also be noted that the traditional and the centuries old Yaosang festival of Manipur amalgamated with Holi with the introduction of Vaishnavism in the eighteenth century.
Holi in Manipur:
Besides, there is also a tradition of preparing a thatched hut of hay, twigs and sticks and then set ablaze. The next day boys make groups and play Holi with girls. Girls, in Manipur, are smart and extract money from the boys for playing colors with them.
Holi in Manipur Temples:
Devotees, dress themselves in the traditional white and yellow turbans and sing devotional songs in the Krishna temples. They also play gulal with each other in front of the temple completely submerging themselves in the mirth associated with the festival.
The Last Day:
On the last day of the festival, devotees take out procession towards the main Krishna temple, 3 km west of the state capital, Imphal. Here too, devotees perform cultural activities and celebrate.
Thabal Chongba: Special Manipuri Dance
A special Manipuri dance, called ‘Thabal Chongba‘ is also associated with this festival. Thabal, means moonlight and Chongba means dance. Though earlier only drum or dholak, was allowed to be used for this special dance, now modern musical instruments are also used. This dance is performed on all six-days in every locality and gives a chance to the young boys and girls to meet.
YAOSHANG: The Festival of Colours
The festival of Yaoshang is considered one of the major festivals of Manipur. People from different communities come together to take part in the celebrations. A five-day event celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Lamta (February-March), the festival is generally celebrated at the same time as holi. But unlike Holi, the celebrations go far beyond just colours. The festival is celebrated with singing, dancing and many other traditional performances. It is celebrated with high spirits by the young and the old, irrespective of their gender and age. This festival represents the celebration of love amongst children, adults and people of all ages.
