With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements: 1) It is a song and dance performance. 2) Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance. [2017]

With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements:

It is a song and dance performance.
Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance.
It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1, 2 and 3.
1 and 3 only
2 and 3 only
1 only

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct

It is a ritual singing, drumming and dancing art form of Manipur. This art form is performed to mark religious occasions and various stages in the life of Manipuri Vaishnavites. It was included on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2013.

Additional Information

Intangible Cultural Heritage: UNESCO defines “intangible” as “expressions that have:
- Passed from one generation to another.
- Evolved in response to their environments.
- Contributed to giving us a sense of identity and continuity.
According to an official document by UNESCO, ‘intangible cultural heritage’ includes “oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe or the knowledge and skills to produce traditional crafts.”
UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity was established in 2008.

Map of India highlighting various intangible cultural heritage sites and traditions across different regions. Key elements include labeled locations such as Durga Puja in Kolkata, Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, and Kutiyattam Sanskrit theatre in Kerala, with a legend listing additional cultural practices like Yoga and Deepawali.

Statement 2 is incorrect

In a typical Sankirtana performance, two drummers and 10 singers-dancers perform in the hall of a domestic courtyard encircled by the devotees. The main musical instruments used are Cymbals and Drums.

Statement 3 is correct

Practised at temples, the performers here narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna through songs and dances.

Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only; Difficulty Level: Hard

2017, PYQs