The correct answer is: All of the above.
Lai Haraoba is a traditional Manipuri festival that is celebrated to honor the deities and ancestors. It is a time for people to come together and celebrate their culture and heritage. The festival is linked to pre-Hindu traditions, as it is believed to have originated before the arrival of Hinduism in Manipur. It is also a time for the celebration of the harvest, as the festival falls at the end of the harvest season.
The festival is characterized by a number of rituals and ceremonies, including dances, music, and feasting. The most important ritual is the worship of the deities, which is done through the performance of dances and songs. The festival is also a time for people to come together and socialize, as it is a time when families and friends gather to celebrate.
Lai Haraoba is a vibrant and colorful festival that is an important part of Manipuri culture. It is a time for people to come together and celebrate their culture and heritage, and to honor the deities and ancestors.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Pre-Hindu traditions: Lai Haraoba is believed to have originated before the arrival of Hinduism in Manipur. It is therefore linked to pre-Hindu traditions.
- Celebration of harvest: Lai Haraoba falls at the end of the harvest season. It is therefore a time for the celebration of the harvest.
- Worship of deities: The most important ritual of Lai Haraoba is the worship of the deities. This is done through the performance of dances and songs.