# The Manipur Journal > For promotion of culture, language and identity ## Posts - [Why Brick Origins in Manipur Predate Muslim Settlements and Point to Kiyamba](https://themanipurjournal.com/why-brick-origins-in-manipur-predate-muslim-settlements-and-point-to-kiyamba/): The 2009 findings from the Kangla excavation in Imphal provide compelling archaeological evidence that bricks (“chek” in Meiteilon) were used in the region well before King Khagemba (r. 1597–1652 CE) was born. This challenges popular misconceptions that brick technology and large-scale construction were introduced solely during Khagemba’s reign, often linked to Muslim settlers (Meitei Pangals) arriving from 1606 CE onward or Chinese prisoners captured around 1631–1632 CE. In the study “Optically stimulated luminescence dating of artifacts excavated from Kangla, Manipur, India” (published in the Indian Journal of Pure & Applied Physics, June 2009), researchers including S.N. Singh (with technical/archaeological support […] - [Why do some Tangkhul identify as Hao within Naga Identity?](https://themanipurjournal.com/why-do-some-tangkhul-identify-as-hao-within-naga-identity/): The resurgence of the “Hao” identity among the Tangkhul people of Manipur, India, reflects a complex interplay of cultural revival, historical interactions with the Meitei, and tensions with the broader Naga ethnic framework. This article analyse the historical and cultural significance of the Hao identity, its adoption by the Meitei, the cultural exchange practice of the Hao Macha Loisang, the motivations behind its resurgence, and its implications for the Tangkhul’s Naga identity. Drawing on historical records, ethnographic studies, and contemporary discourse, the article argues that the Hao identity is a decolonial effort to reclaim pre-colonial heritage, shaped by collaborative Meitei-Tangkhul […] - [Khongum Melei: The Flower of Unity Between Meitei and Shan](https://themanipurjournal.com/khongum-melei-the-flower-of-unity-between-meitei-and-shan/): Now is the season for Khongum Melei blooms, and when we see it hanging like a golden jewel from the tree, the trust, friendship, and unity of the Meitei and Shan communities—now separated by international boundaries, yet connected by the flower of unity—are vividly remembered. When natural calamities, like the severe earthquake in the Shan states, or unrest due to armed conflict strike, our hearts ache, and we pray for the safety of our Shan brothers and sisters. This radiant orchid, blooming in Manipur’s verdant hills, carries a timeless tale of alliance and resilience, forged in the 15th century under […] - [No Meitei Without Maring and Arambai: A Forgotten Truth](https://themanipurjournal.com/no-meitei-without-maring-and-arambai-a-forgotten-truth/): The Meitei owes a significant portion of its historical resilience and cultural prominence to a profound interdependence with the indigenous Maring tribe. It is a plausible assertion that without the contributions of the Maring, the Meitei identity, as it is recognized today, might have diminished into historical obscurity. Central to this argument is the Arambai, a weapon of exceptional lethality that epitomized Meitei military dominance, its efficacy fundamentally reliant upon the specialized knowledge of the Maring. In the medieval period, the Arambai—a dart fashioned from bamboo, tipped with iron, and coated with a potent poison from Maring tribe—served as a […] - [Mountains that Remember: The Legend of Meiriang and Lubuannei](https://themanipurjournal.com/mountains-that-remember-the-legend-of-meiriang-and-lubuannei/): Every tribe has its legends—stories of valor, love, and heart-wrenching separations. Among the Rongmei Tribes of Manipur, there exists a beautiful folk tale that must be documented and passed down to future generations. The love saga of Meiriang and Lubuannei is found in oral history, and as such, variations in the storytelling may occur, depending on how accurately the tale has been conveyed. I have made my best effort to preserve the essence of this saga as it was told to me. If there are any shortcomings or omissions, please inform me so that I can revise the article accordingly. […] - [Pena: A Timeless Musical Treasure of the Meitei](https://themanipurjournal.com/pena-a-timeless-musical-treasure-of-the-meitei/): Music and musical instruments are woven into the cultural essence of every human society, each boasting its own distinct gems. Among the Meitei people, who reside in Manipur and the bordering states of Assam and Tripura, as well as in countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar, the Pena shines as a unique and profound musical instrument. In ancient times, the Pena was predominantly played by eminent royal court musicians to invoke the gods and goddesses or to entertain the king and his courtiers through musical concerts. It has been an essential part of the Meitei life, marking significant life events such […] - [Mera Hou Chongba: Celebrating Unity and Cultural Heritage](https://themanipurjournal.com/mera-hou-chongba-celebrating-unity-and-cultural-heritage/): Mera Hou Chongba is a traditional festival celebrated in Manipur that embodies the themes of unity and cultural solidarity among the various indigenous communities. The term “Mera” refers to a month in the Manipuri lunar calendar which is October in the Gregorian calendar, while “Hou Chongba” translates to “grand feast” or “great gathering.” Together, “Mera Hou Chongba” signifies a grand assembly held during the month of Mera, where people from different tribes and communities come together to celebrate their shared heritage and foster a sense of brotherhood. The festival is marked by cultural exchanges, traditional performances, and the sharing of […] - [Tedim Hills in Myanmar: Ancestral Homeland of Kuki, Paite, Hmar, and Mizo Tribes](https://themanipurjournal.com/tedim-hills-in-myanmar-ancestral-homeland-of-kuki-paite-hmar-and-mizo-tribes/): Recently, a tale of migration to Manipur, coexistence, and shifting dynamics came to light. The ancestral homeland of the Kuki, Paite, Mizo, and Hmar, who now want to come under the banner of Zo United, was situated in Tedim Hills in the neighboring Country, Myanmar. The Kukis, particularly the New Kukis, inhabited the region before the migration of the Mizos (Lushais) from the Chin Hills of Myanmar, a historical dynamic vividly documented in Sangkima’s “Essays on the History of the Mizos” (2004). The Mizos displaced the New Kukis in Mizoram, leading to their subsequent migration into Manipur. The Mizos, primarily […] - [Maram Chanu Ingallei, Worshiped as Ima Langol Tarung Lairembi by Meitei](https://themanipurjournal.com/maram-chanu-ingallei-worshiped-as-ima-langol-tarung-lairembi-by-meitei/): Throughout history, foreign writers have often depicted Meitei kings as unfaithful, perpetuating discrimination and subjugation against other tribal communities in the region. To further this narrative, many immortal love stories between Meitei kings and women from the hill regions have been intentionally buried. However, the current situation requires resurrecting these tales, celebrating the immortal love sagas that have defined Manipur’s rich heritage. Among these remarkable stories is the enduring love saga of Meitei King Paikhomba and Maram Chanu Ingallei, a narrative that deserves recognition and appreciation by present and future generations. Maram Chanu Ingallei, worshiped as Ima Langol Tarung Lairembi […] - [Mera Wayungba: The Enduring Bond Between Meitei and Tangkhul Brothers](https://themanipurjournal.com/mera-wayungba-the-enduring-bond-between-meitei-and-tangkhul-brothers/): Mera Wayungba, also known as “Mera Thaomei Thaanba,” continues to recount the age-old traditions of the Meitei and Tangkhul brothers. In this narrative, the younger brother (Meitei), descending to the valley, signals his well-being to his elder brother (Tangkhul) who lives in the hills. This cherished ritual primarily revolves around the enduring bond between the Meitei and Tangkhul brothers. The significant festival known as Mera Hou Chongba or Mera Wayungba holds a special place in Manipur’s traditions. Celebrated on the 15th day of Mera in the Manipuri lunar calendar, this festival unites various ethnic groups from both the hills and […] - [The Meitei Beliefs and Water: A Reflection on Lai Ikouba to Khayom Lakpa](https://themanipurjournal.com/the-meitei-beliefs-and-water-a-reflection-on-lai-ikouba-to-khayom-lakpa/): In Meitei evolutionary myths, the concept of God is intricately connected to the elements of nature. According to these beliefs, God resides in Heaven, while the Goddess resides in water, enshrining the Earth. This profound connection forms a syncretic relationship between heaven, earth, and water. Water, in particular, holds a special place as the most sacred realm, where God dwells. The ritual known as ‘Lai ikouba‘ exemplifies the spiritual invocation of God from water, seeking their blessings for peace, prosperity, happiness, and oracles to prepare for possible challenges. In the Meitei culture, ‘Lai Haraoba‘ or the “Cosmic Recreation” rituals commence […] - [Chiru Tribe's Belief in Sidaba Mapu from the Meitei Religion](https://themanipurjournal.com/chiru-tribes-belief-in-sidaba-mapu-from-the-meitei-religion/): The Chiru tribes and Meitei have similar religious beliefs. They also worship Sidaba Mapu, known as Lamba Patheiin, and supreme house diety Sanamahi as Inroureii. Much like the Meitei people, the Chiru tribe also has a seven-clan system called “Yek Salai.” However, their journey towards Christianity and differences in religious beliefs have caused them to gradually forget some of their traditional customs and history. Nevertheless, some Chiru elders still hold strong beliefs in their Supreme deity, known as “Lamba Pathiein.” They believe that this deity assigned specific tasks for each of the seven days in a week, corresponding to the […] - [Do You Know Yaosomai, Indigenous Religion of Poumai](https://themanipurjournal.com/do-you-know-yaosomai-indigenous-religion-of-poumai/): The Poumai tribe, residing in the Northern side of Manipur, has a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in their indigenous religion known as Yaosomai or Zhaoshomai. This indigenous religion of Poumai tribes holds a significant place in the lives of the Poumai people, shaping their worldview and guiding their spiritual practices. Belief in a Supreme God: Rahmai At the heart of the Yaosomai religion lies the belief in a single supreme deity, Rahmai. The literal translation of Rahmai is “Supreme God,” signifying the omnipotent creator responsible for the universe’s design and existence. Rahmai is regarded as the ultimate judge who […] - [Mu Ka Da: A Cultural Fest of Kharam Rooted in Heritage and Harmony](https://themanipurjournal.com/mu-ka-da-a-cultural-fest-of-kharam-rooted-in-heritage-and-harmony/): Among the Kharam’s cherished traditions is the Mu Ka Da festival, celebrated annually on the second Monday of May. This vibrant event signifies the culmination of the agricultural cycle, marking the completion of seed sowing. More than an agricultural ritual, Mu Ka Da symbolizes the tribe’s enduring connection to nature, community, and their ancestors—a connection that has withstood the pressures of modernization and religious transformation. The Kharam tribe, a recognized Scheduled Tribe of Manipur, represents a small yet culturally rich indigenous community. With a population less than 2000, they reside in villages such as Kharam Pallen, Kharam Khullen, and Laikot […] - [Taboos in Manipur](https://themanipurjournal.com/taboos-in-manipur/): Taboo refers to forbidden activities or behaviors that go against social approval and are restricted by societal norms. These prohibitions are deeply embedded in the social and cultural aspects of life, serving as complete restrictions on saying or doing certain things. Manipur is known to have thousands of taboos, which have contributed to the people being regarded as highly civilized since ancient times. These taboos also play a vital role in preserving culture and traditions. In this article, we will delve into some of the taboos in Manipur, focusing particularly on those of the Meetei tribes. Manipur is home to […] - [Do You Know Khongjais of Manipur Are Not Refugee](https://themanipurjournal.com/do-you-know-khongjais-of-manipur-are-not-refugee/): It was the far sighted policy of Tangkhul MP, Rungsung Suisa that he requested the Indian Government to grant relief fund for the refugee. His intention might be sincere and legitimate to check the illegal influx from the erstwhile Burma in the hills of Manipur. However, the refugee relief fund was a blunder to the indigenous khongjais of Manipur. - [Do You Know Tangkhul Naga Labour Corps](https://themanipurjournal.com/do-you-know-tangkhul-naga-labour-corps/): Observing Tangkhul Naga Labour Corps Centennial is distorting the history of Manipur Labour Corps. Around 2000 men were recruited for the 22nd Manipur Labour Corps which was divided into four companies, consisting of 500 Meeteis, 700 Tangkhuls, 400 Kukis and 300 Mao tribes. - [Reasons Why HAC Act is Anti State Act in Manipur](https://themanipurjournal.com/reasons-why-hac-act-is-anti-state-act-in-manipur/): In any protest, be it for student scholarships, job reservation, free food or any freebies, one act the hill people recite in their mouth is HAC Act. It seems a god gifted boon. In fact, this Act is the one which is dividing Manipur into Hill and Valley. - [Do You Know Relationship Between Manipur and Naga Hills](https://themanipurjournal.com/relationship-between-manipur-and-naga-hills/): The Nagas regarded Manipur was the stronger power of the two alliances (Manipur and British). When Nagas turned down the ultimatum of British in 1833, Gambhir Singh marched upto Kohima and other Angami villages. He re-asserted the authority of Manipur over that area and reduces to submission several villages including Kohima. - [Do You Know the Territory of Meetei Leibak](https://themanipurjournal.com/territory-of-meetei-leibak/): Lord Lansdowne used a significant term “The Manipur people” to mean both the people of the valley and the hills. However, the Political Agent used the term ‘Manipur’ to mean Meiteis who dwelt in the valley of Manipur. - [Do You Know Kuranganayani Saved Ahom Kingdom](https://themanipurjournal.com/kuranganayani-saved-ahom-kingdom/): Princess Angousana with her courage and intelligence snatched away a well deserved victory in Ahom’s side. For her valour and patriotism, Ahom still remember Kuranganayani as the Magolu Kunwari. - [Meetei Relationship With Paite and Lushai](https://themanipurjournal.com/meetei-relationship-with-paite-and-lushai-tribes/): The modern day history of Manipur is incomplete without Paite, Lushai and Khongjai. Do you know Meetei relationship with Paite and Lushai tribes of Mizoram? Paite are mentioned in the early records of Meetei and British as Sukte. - [Do You Know Sanamahism Is the Oldest Religion](https://themanipurjournal.com/do-you-know-sanamahism-is-the-oldest-religion/): Do you know which is the oldest religion in the World? Sanamahism is the oldest religion in the World. Lainingthou Sanamahi is the supreme deity in Sanamahi religion. Hinduism conquered most of South Asian Nations, Islam conquered several middle east nations and Christianity conquered almost entire world. But, Sanamahism conquered Universe. Sanamahism started in Meetei Leibak (now Manipur) and mainly worships by the Meetei tribes inhabiting in Manipur, Assam, Tripura, Myanmar, Bangladesh and other Northeastern Indian states. With the dawn of proto history, group of early men started to settle in groups ( during the New Stone Age) and they […] - [Do You Know Anal Tribes Worship Ibudhou Wangpuren](https://themanipurjournal.com/anal-tribes-worship-ibudhou-wangpuren/): Do you know the Anal tribes living in the Chandel districts of Manipur worships Ibudhou Wangpuren (Wangbren)? The tribes have a strong faith in the Meetei deity. Whoever challenged the power of Ibudhou are severely punished. History of Manipur will be incomplete without knowing about Tangkhul Saram Pakhangba, Funal Maring Telheiba, Chothe Thangwai Pakhangba, Kabui Salang Maiba, Wangpuren of Anal. Don’t be proud of two terms Kuki and Naga given by some foreigners. Know your roots, your identity and culture. No force can erase the history of Manipur. Citing some researcher’s view, “…Mao-Maram and Tangkhul ladies were the queens of […] - [Enjoy Luira Phanit Festival of Tangkhul Tribe](https://themanipurjournal.com/enjoy-luira-phanit-festival-of-tangkhul-tribe/): Luira Phanit festival of Tangkhul is one of the most important festivals. This is very auspicious for the community. Luira Phanit or Luita Phanit is widely celebrated at Poi (Pui), Shirui, Lunghar, Longpi, Hunphun and various other villagers in Ukhrul districts from 27 to 29th January 2014. We were fortunate to enjoy the Luira Phanit festival in the Poi Village of Ukhrul district this time along with my friends. Three days of our stay in this small village, bordering Myanmar was a never forgetting moment of my life. Poi is around 150 kilometers from Imphal. We travelled for 16 kilometers […] - [Relationship Between Meetei And Thangal Tribes](https://themanipurjournal.com/relationship-between-meetei-and-thangal-tribes/): Legend has a touching story about the relationship between Meetei and Thangal tribes of modern day Manipur. The Thangal tribes were created by God from the beginning of the earth and they continued to live on here. They are one of the most important tribes in Manipur with indigenous culture and traditions. In the Indian Constitution, they have been recognised as Koirao in the Schedule Tribe lists, which the Thangal people are not happy. Often this led to the confusion of the identity and racial status among the historians, social anthropologists and sociologists. Later on, they diluted themselves into the […] - [Agriculture Started In Manipur 40000 Years Ago](https://themanipurjournal.com/agriculture-started-in-manipur-around-40000-years/): The ancestors of Meetei race, the Lai people who choose the peak of Koubru Mountain and settled in caves were earlier food gatherers. They depend on wild grains, fruits and animals for their food. Later they began to cultivate food. Thus agriculture started in Manipur around 40000 years ago. The Lailou (now Lairou) ching in present day Senapati district is a living proof that our forefathers have began farming when they were living in the Koubru peak. From Koubru, migration of human started in different directions, extending to the South East Asian regions, expanding upto Southern China, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, […] - [Why Did British Divide Manipur Into Hill Valley](https://themanipurjournal.com/why-did-british-divide-manipur-into-hill-valley/): If there was no separate administration of Hills, then development will be tasted by the hill just like those in valley. It was the evil design of British with sole mission to carve out a “Crown Colony” which led to the backwardness of the Hills of Manipur. British divided Manipur into Hill Valley and destroyed the region. It was the far sighted policy of British and calculated approach as well to punish the Meetei community whom they have been administering the major portion of China Burma and India (CBI) region, now termed as WESIA. Without the help of Meetei, British […] - [Do You Know Lai People Worships Sanamahi](https://themanipurjournal.com/lai-people-worships-sanamahi/): The Lai people worships Sanamahi. These people have descended from the Koubru mountains. And settled in different hills and plains of Manipur and divided into seven salai. The seven sons of Ipudhou Konchin Tukthaba Pakhangba, viz., Mangang, Luwang, Khuman, Angom, Moirang, Kha Nganba, Salai Leishangthem ruled in Meetei Leibak. Mangang was given the Imphal Kangla to rule independently; Luwang was kept at Luwangsangbam kangla; Khuman was given the Nongyai Leikoipung (present day Mayang Imphal). Angom was given the Kongba Maru Kangla; Moirang salai was given the Moirang Kangla; Kha Nganba was given the Kha Nganba Taknakha Puruk Soubi kangla and […] - [Do you know Meetei worships Tangkhul women](https://themanipurjournal.com/meetei-worships-tangkhul-women/): Meetei worships Tangkhul women as a Goddess and the presence of Tangkhul brothers and sisters is mandatory during Lai Haraoba of Ima Nongpok Ireima. The Meetei goddess, Nongpok Ireima is a Tangkhul woman. She was married to a Meetei king Tabungba. Irengba married the daughter of Tangkhul Chief Khayingba, Pidongnu Nuphabi. which is known as Haoreima Tamheibi by the Meetei. The Leirum (Tangkhul phee) which is an important gift in every Meetei marriage is her father’s (gift) to the Meetei king. Interestingly the Chingdai Khullakpa (headman) Khayingba was the second son of Thingol Likmaba of the Khuman principality. He went […] - [Khagee Leihao Is A Gift From China](https://themanipurjournal.com/khagee-leihao-gift-from-china/): Manipur got the most precious gift from China. Erstwhile Meetei Leibak reaches upto the modern day Yunan province. Meetei Leibak and Khagee Leibak (modern day Yunan province of China) have deep historical ties and cultural relationships. The Chinese learnt the art of weaving silk fabrics and Thang Ta from the Meetei. This can be verified from the book “Economic Product of India” written by Sir James Watt and published in 1893 A.D. Without any doubt, Meetei Leibak ( or Kangleipak) is the cradle for human civilization. The Lai people from the Koubru Mountains were scattered to different places in the […] - [Relation Between Khongjai Chief Tonglhu And Tikendrajit](https://themanipurjournal.com/relation-between-khongjai-chief-tonglhu-and-tikendrajit/): Chassad, an old khongjai village in the present Kamjong district of Manipur is an important place in the history of Manipur. As per the records of Manipur State Durbar, the Chassad khongjai were staying in a large area between Chattrik and Kongal Thana on the North and South and in between Angoching and main portion of the Malain Range on the east and west. Chassad khongjai is associated with the history of Manipur. Some historians claiming that Chassad village was settled at Karongkaphung area of Sampui village only in 1940 after the Bungpa khullen villages, acting on a court order, […] - [Do you know Meetei Are Hill Tribes of Manipur](https://themanipurjournal.com/meetei-are-hill-tribes-of-manipur/): The Lai people, ancestors of Meetei tribe dwells in the Koubru Peak. They started shifting cultivation in present day Lairou (Lailou) in the Senapati district of Manipur. In fact, Koubru is the cradle of human civilization. Indigenous native people of this land are all tribals. In short, Meetei are hill tribes. From the hills, civilization of Meetei Leibak started. Before the water in the valley and surrounding low lying areas were drained out at Chingnunghut, settlement started in the surrounding mountains – the Khangkhui cave in Ukhrul district, the Tharon cave in Tamenglong, the Songbu cave in Chandel district of […] - [Reasons Why Tangkhul of Manipur Are Not Nagas](https://themanipurjournal.com/reasons-why-tangkhul-of-manipur-are-not-nagas/): One cannot create Unique Naga history or Nagalim in the region by showing “Head Hunter”, “Snake Eater”, “Roman Script”, or “Christianity”. If the Britishers were not in the North East Frontier of India, the term “Naga” would not have been created even in 2019 A.D. The word Tangkhul seems fade away in due course. Indeed, Tangkhul of Manipur are not Nagas. Tangkhul calling themselves Naga is like few Meetei linking themselves as the descendant of Arjuna, one of the protagonists in Mahabharat epic. History cannot be discovered or invented. Both the stories were concocted during the 18th and 19th Centuries. 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