Lai-Haraoba, a post-harvest festival is celebrated by the people of
Manipur. The word Lai, literally meaning God, is derived from the Sanskrit word
Linga, the symbol of
Lord Shiva. This festival marks the fusion of the old faith of the Manipuris with Shaivism. Lai-Haraoba festival is devoted to the tribal god Umang Lais Lais, meaning god of the forests. This festival falls between the month of April and May, and lasts for a fortnight. The famous Laipon dance symbolizing the birth of Nong-Pokning-thou, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, is performed during this festival.
