The Manipuris believe that this dance represents the concept of the beginning of the world. There is a legend that in the beginning there was only Guru Sidaba, the highest Lord, existing in the dark vacuum. Once the brilliant hues of the rainbow shot into this dark space, the beams of lights motivated the Guru to witness the world with flora and fauna. He sent Atiya Guru Sidaba along with a creature to create the world. This creature spun a web-like frame work on which the human inhabitation was to be initiated. Atiya Guru desired to solidify the framework. He went again to Guru Sidaba. The Guru offered him some dirt from his navel and he also created nine men from right side and seven women from his left side to assist Atiya Guru. The dirt was to be applied to the framework to solidify it. The Atiya Guru along with the team of men and women sat down to work. Their attempt was foiled twice by one Harba. Guru Sidaba then sent the goddess of lightning to assist Atiya Guru. With the graceful beauty and charm the goddess could entice Harba away. The framework was then solidified and declared fit for human habitation. On its completion the occasion was celebrated as Lai-Haraoba. Twelve main sequences which part by part depict each process in the creation.
Music & Dance