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Which instruments accompany Manipuri dance performances?
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Manipur
The largest freshwater lake in northeastern India, Loktak Lake is known for its numerous phumdis, or floating islands with vegetation.
Manipuri dance performances are accompanied by a classical musical style known as nat, which features high-pitched, open-throated singing. The primary instruments used to provide rhythmic and melodic accompaniment include:12
- Pung: A barrel drum that is central to both raslila and sankirtana performances.12
- Pena: A bowed string instrument traditionally used in the Lai Haraoba ritual.12
- Kartal: Small cymbals used for rhythmic accompaniment.12
- Flute: Frequently utilized in both solo and choral segments of the performance.12
In certain forms like sankirtana, the musicians themselves are active participants, with drummers often performing vigorous, energetic movements while playing the pung.13