Manipuri folk songs performed during harvest festivals are often characterized by:

The correct answer is: a) Energetic rhythms.

Manipuri folk songs performed during harvest festivals are often characterized by energetic rhythms. This is because these songs are meant to be danced to, and the energetic rhythms help to create a lively and festive atmosphere. The songs are also often accompanied by traditional Manipuri instruments, such as the pung (drum) and the pena (bamboo flute), which further add to the lively atmosphere.

Here are some additional details about each of the options:

• b) Plaintive melodies. This is not typically the case for Manipuri folk songs performed during harvest festivals. These songs are usually meant to be happy and celebratory, so they tend to have more upbeat melodies.
• c) Devotional lyrics. This is also not typically the case for Manipuri folk songs performed during harvest festivals. These songs are usually about the joy of harvest and the abundance of food, so they tend to have more secular lyrics.
• d) Call-and-response patterns. This is sometimes the case for Manipuri folk songs performed during harvest festivals. However, it is not as common as energetic rhythms.