Yelhou Jagoi

Yelhou Jagoi is re-enactment of creation also known as Lai Haraoba, a dance form of Manipur. The myth of creation, re-creation, reflections of flora and fauna and the synergy of mankind and its endeavour are beautifully encoded in these celebrative enactments. From the story of creation and re-creation, it manifests the living within the nature that express through 364 hand gestures (Khutheks) used in dance sequences called Laibou. The documentation highlights Nungnao Jagoi - through this Maibis express - the birth of a child and its growing process. Similarly, the Yumsarol looks at the construction of traditional houses. Again, the documentation also highlights Panthoibi Jagoi, which celebrates romantic love of Lord Nongpok Ningthou and Goddess Panthoibi. Likewise, the film highlights the lesser known nuances of ritualistic dance form of Manipur within the broader spectrum of nature and contextualizing the creation and co-living with the nature itself.

The film won the National Film Award for Best Anthropological/Ethnographic Film at the 43rd National Film Awards. The citation for the National Award reads, "For documenting authentically and artistically a traditional dance form of Manipur".