The term Manipuri for Manipuri dance is derived from the Indian state, Manipur. It is here where this dance form had originated and developed. A beautifully choreographed Manipuri dance glues the audience to the flow of the dance and takes them to another world of ancient India. It is one more of the graceful temple ritual dance which now constitutes as one of the Indian classical dance. Looking back, Manipuri dance is encouraged from the religious festival of Manipur, Lai Haroba.

In Manipuri dance the main theme is based on the interactions between Lord Krishna, Radha and the Gopikas (Milkmaids). For instance, Lord Krishna would be teasing Radha and Gopikas. So there will be one dancer as Lord Krishna and others as Radha and Gopikas. The dancer as Lord Krishna would wear traditional male garments whereas the ladies have a nice puffed skirt and a transparent veil over their face. With those costumes the lady dancers can be easily mistaken for dolls dancing.

Ras leela (Divine dance between Lord Krishna, Radha and Gopikas) and Sankirtana (Devotional songs) are two major elements of the themes for Manipuri dance. Under Sankirtana there are various sub-themes.

Apart from the traditional music and themes, today, experienced Manipuri dance teachers are coming up with new music and themes. There are Manipuri dance institutes not only within India but in the western countries as well. As there are some similarities between Indian classical dances there are vast differences too. This variety is in the style and presentation music of Manipuri dance has its own unique identity that attracts art admirers to it.