ABSTRACT
For centuries, Nata Sankirtana has been performed as an important practice, gandharva bidya and Mahayajna in the society of Manipuri Goudiya Vaishnavites. Nata Sankirtana became a part and parcel of socio-religious activities and prosperity of Manipuri Vaishnava community. The form of prayer accompanied by music, song and dance has been known as Gandharbam since the time of Vedas. Nata Sankirtana is a form of worship to the followers of Goudiya Vaishnavism. It is considered a mahayajna. The Vaishnava architects trace its origin to the aesthetics and philosophy of Shrimad Bhagavata. The true picture of Manipuri Nata Sankirtana is serving the Lord Krishna. Nata Sankirtana was introduced by devotees and priests to the state of Manipur under the aegis of the kings. During the reign of King Kiyamba in Manipur, in 1467-1508 a Vishnu Temple was set up and people started paying obeisance to Vishnu by offering Sankirtana.
