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In which Indian state is the unique festival of Lai Haraoba celebrated for worshipping the ancient gods and goddesses of the Meitei community?
Manipur
Assam
Nagaland
Mizoram
Manipur
Lai Haraoba is the most significant traditional festival of the Meitei people of Manipur, symbolizing the creation of the universe through the ritual dance performances of Maibas and Maibis. It serves as a cultural repository for the indigenous Umang Lai (sylvan deities) worship practices.
Lai Haraoba is the most significant traditional festival of the Meitei people of Manipur, symbolizing the creation of the universe through the ritual dance performances of Maibas and Maibis. It serves as a cultural repository for the indigenous Umang Lai (sylvan deities) worship practices.
This festival is rooted in the pre-Hindu Meitei religion, often linked with the historical evolution of the Manipuri classical dance style recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.
The term Lai Haraoba translates to Merry-making of the Gods.
The festival features a central ritual dance known as Laibou Chongba.
It is primarily performed by Maibas (priests) and Maibis (priestesses) who are considered the spiritual guardians of Meitei culture.
The festival is deeply connected to the worship of local deities residing in sacred groves called Umang Lais.
The festival typically involves intricate dance sequences that mimic the creation of the world and the daily activities of ancestral beings.
While primarily associated with Manipur, small diaspora populations of Meiteis in neighbouring states like Assam and Tripura may also celebrate it, but it remains indigenous to the state of Manipur.
Option B (Assam) is incorrect as it is famous for the Bihu festival, not Lai Haraoba.
Option C (Nagaland) is known for the Hornbill Festival, which showcases the cultural diversity of Naga tribes.
Option D (Mizoram) is known for festivals like Chapchar Kut and Mim Kut.
A is correct тАФ Lai Haraoba is the traditional festival of the Meitei community residing in the state of Manipur.
When studying Northeast Indian festivals, differentiate between tribal festivals (like Nagaland's Hornbill) and indigenous community festivals (like Manipur's Lai Haraoba) to avoid confusion in matching-type questions.