Costumes of Manipuri Dance

This picture shows the contrast between the ancient costume of the Maibi priestesses of Manipur (girls in white) and the modern costume of the Vaishnavite “Ras Leela” dance which developed since the 18th Century (Noopur Singha, center in green potloi or skirt.)

“Manipuri Dance was a communication between man and deities by Gestures (signs) before the evolutionary advance that led to true speech. The actual cult, myths, and legends are still carried on by the Maibis (Meitei priestesses) and dancers. Maibi dance is the Foundation of Manipuri Dances.” Yumnam Gourmani Singh, Ancient Cult and Culture of Manipur, India