MANIPUR

The traditional and centuries old Yaosang festival of Manipur has now been amalgamated with Holi following the successful introduction of Vaishnavism in the 18th century during the reign of Garib Nawaz. The theme of the festival here is the worship of Lord Krishna and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The festival is celebrated for 6 days from the Manipuri full moon day.

The festival is characterized by a folk dance called Thabal Chongba, which means Moonlight Dance. The Manipuris being very conservative don't allow their young daughters to meet boys except on this occasion. The night before Holi a hut is erected which is then set ablaze when full moon rises from behind the Baruni Hills. The following morning groups of youngsters extract money from their elders using the phrase Naka Theng.

The girls and the boys play with colored powder, and then the women demand money from the men in return for having played with them.

Songs sung in praise of Lord Krishna and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu characterizes the festival.