Holi Sankirtan showcase draws audiences, seeks to revive fading Manipuri tradition
- Sep 23, 2026,
- Updated Sep 23, 2026, 9:27 PM IST
A vibrant performance of Holi Sankirtan, a traditional Manipuri devotional art form associated with Lord Krishna and Radha, drew audiences in Imphal East as the Academy of Indigenous Music (AIM) showcased the traditional performing art on September 23.
The performance was held at the Huiyen Lallong Manipur Thang-Ta Cultural Association in Irilbung, with around 15 artists taking part.
The presentation was part of AIM's annual workshop-cum-production programme. This year, the institution conducted a 15-day workshop on Holi Sankirtan under the Chief Ministergi Artistsingi Tengbang, sponsored by the Department of Art and Culture.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the event, AIM secretary Irengbam Shyamchand Singh said the institution was established 18 years ago and received recognition from the Ministry of Culture eight years ago.
He said AIM has since been following the ministry's guidelines while working to preserve and promote Manipur's traditional art and cultural heritage.
According to Singh, AIM organises a workshop-cum-production programme every year and has previously presented productions including Udokhon Leela, Gouranga Leela, Nitya Raas and Kangsa Boro Leela.
Singh said Holi Sankirtan was once widely popular in Manipur, with families traditionally inviting performers to their homes during the festival, believing that the devotional performance would bring blessings.
However, he said the tradition has gradually declined and Holi Sankirtan performances are now more commonly seen at temples.
"With an aim and objective to contribute some effort in promoting Holi Sankirtan, this year our institute focused on this performing art," Singh said.
He said AIM would continue efforts to pass on knowledge of Manipur's traditional arts and culture to younger generations.
Holi Sankirtan combines devotional congregational singing and dance dedicated to Radha and Krishna and is traditionally associated with the celebration of Holi, known as Yaoshang in Manipur.