About Shumang Leela:
- The meaning of this theatre form is “courtyard performance”, which is performed in Manipur.
- In this, the roles of women are all played by men, called Nupi Shabis.
- In the case of women’s theatre groups, the roles of men Lai Haraoba, a ritual of the Meitei community of Manipur.
- The plays provide a vehicle for educating the public about social, political, and economic issues.
- Types – Shumang Leela is of two types
- Nupa Shumang Leela – Performed only by men
- Nupi Shumang Leela – Performed only by women are played by women.
- The female roles are taken up by transgender actors.
- The tradition is believed to be descended from News
Q1) What is Lai Haraoba ?
Lai Haraoba is a festival associated with the Meitei people celebrated to please the Umang Lai, the traditional deities of Sanamahism.
Source: In Frames | The art of gender-bending
Last updated on March, 2026
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