Ras Lila, undoubtedly, is the origin of the classical dances in Manipur. Today, this form of Indian classical Manipuri dance has been recognised as one of the major art forms in the North Eastern state. A quick glimpse into the history of Ras Lila will lead one to the love poetry of the Vaishnavites sages, such as, Chaitanya, Surdas, Jayadeva and others. These love ballads were set to music and later adapted to dance forms.

Primarily Ras Lila in Manipur is devotional in nature. Through this classical Manipuri dance the love story of Lord Krishna and Radha is portrayed. The delicate movements, the crescendo of the music and the grace of the dancers make the performance truly a divine one. Ras Lila in Manipur is performed in front of the temples. In temple premises, such as, Shri Shri Govindaji in Imphal Ras Lila is commonly performed during Krishna Janmashtami, Basanta Purnima and Kartik Purnima.

According to the history of Manipuri classical dances the traditional Ras Lila was of three varieties: the Tal Rasak, the Danda Rasak and the Mandal Rasak. In all these three forms of Ras Lila the story depicted revolved around Lord Krishna and his divine love, Radha. In this performance the person playing the role of the Lord is surrounded by a circle of female dancers representing the gopis. Ras is at times classified as tandav or lasya too. Of the seven generally accepted varieties five, Maha Ras, Vasanta Ras, Kunj Ras, Nitya Ras and Dija Ras are of the lasya type. Goshta Ras and Ulukhal Ras are of the tandava type and tell of the exploits of Krishna as leader of the youths of Vrindaban, of how He tended the cows, played games, rode horses and, even as a child, killed demons.

The costumes of Ras Lila of Manipur are vibrant and are quite captivating to look at. As far as the dancers are concerned both male and female dancers are part of this splendid act. The richness of the costumes, the poise, the moving music and the devotion with which Ras Lila is performed is sure to strike an emotional chord.