Manipuri Dance

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the dance form associated with the specific cultural symbol 'Yumjao Paphal' and the deity 'Pakhangba'.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Yumjao Paphal is a powerful symbol in the Meitei culture of Manipur. It depicts two coiled serpents interlocked, representing the primordial cosmic order. This symbol is deeply connected to the pre-Vaishnavite traditions of Manipur and the deity Pakhangba. The symbolic patterns and yantras of the Meitei tradition form a philosophical and structural base for Manipuri dance, especially in its Lai Haraoba festival context.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Yumjao Paphal is a symbolic yantra associated with Manipuri dance.

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify a group of related terms from the given list. This requires recognizing which items belong to the same cultural or artistic tradition.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- (D) Manipuri: This is the name of a major Indian classical dance form from the state of Manipur.
- (A) Pung cholam: This is a vibrant and dynamic drum dance ('Pung' is the drum, 'cholam' means dance) that is an integral part of the Manipuri tradition.
- (B) Nata sankirtan: This is the ritualistic performance art of Manipur that involves singing, drumming, and dancing. It is central to the Manipuri Vaishnavite culture and has been inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Pung Cholam is a key element of Nata Sankirtan.
- (C) Ramlila: This is a folk dramatic performance of the Ramayana epic, primarily performed in North India, and is not part of the Manipuri tradition.
Therefore, Pung cholam, Nata sankirtan, and Manipuri are all intrinsically related.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct combination of related terms is (A), (B), and (D).