TODAY -

The unbreakable umbilical cord: Tangkhul folklore and Meitei connection

Yenning *

 Mera Wayungba - In the month of Mera, every house arranged a limelight in front of the house :: November 17 2013
Mera Wayungba - In the month of Mera on November 17 2013 :: Pix - Ashok Ningthoujam



Folklore plays a significant role in uncovering our origins by offering valuable insights into the beliefs, customs, and traditions of our ancestors. It provides a window into the collective memory of a community or culture, enabling us to comprehend their values, history, and worldview.

Tangkhul folklore on the origin of the Meiteis holds significant insights into the historical connection between these two communities, as American folklorist Alan Dundes noted in "Interpreting Folklore" (1980).

Dundes emphasized that folklore is not merely a collection of old stories and customs, but a dynamic process of oral communication that reflects the changing times in which people live. Tangkhul folklore, encompassing legends, myths, and proverbs, carry symbolic meanings and specific social functions, offering a deeper understanding of our origins and cultural heritage.

In this edition of "Hoi Polloi & Mundanity", we delve into some aspects of Tangkhul folklore concerning the origin of the Meiteis, drawing upon the wealth of knowledge presented in YL Roland Shimmi's "History of the Nagas" (2013).

In Tangkhul tradition, it is believed that the name "Meitei" originated from the southern Tangkhuls and can be traced back to the word "Mateimi". Meiteis have a tendency to drop the suffix, so "Mateimi" becomes "Matei". Over time, the prefix "Ma" transforms into "Mei/Mee", aligning with the Zeliangrong and Maram way of naming. Thus, "Mateimi" eventually becomes "Meitei/Meetei", the official name. To the Hundung Tangkhuls, "Mateimi" signifies "our people who have adopted another culture",

Tangkhuls recognize that, like them, the structure of Meiteis' society is organized into seven clans known as Salais. Interpretations other than these seven clans or principalities are not considered original. The seven Salais are Mangang, Khaba-Nganba, Sharang Leishangthem (Chenglei), Angom, Luwang, Khuman, and Moirang.

Concerning the Lai Haraoba ritual and festival of Moirang, Tangkhuls believe that it shares a close connection with the dismembered Lungka Tangkhul village, whose inhabitants merged with Kampha, present-day Sirarakhong Tangkhul village. During the Moirang Lai Haraoba ritual, references to Tangkhuls are often made, signifying their influence on the festival.

Following Tangkhul mythology, a sizable stone cave engulfed a deer, a dog, and a man. Distraught, the man's second wife courageously stood unclothed before the cave, thus birthing the Moirang Lai Haraoba ritual. According to the legend, the stone found amusement in the woman's nakedness, resulting in the cave's mouth opening. While the man and the dog successfully escaped, the deer was unable to do so.

The Shangshak Tangkhul legend speculates that the deer in question was of a white variety, and a similar tale is recounted among the Rengma Makhel tribe. Due to the enduring influence of this festival within the Moirang community, Tangkhuls firmly believe that a significant portion of Moirang's population consists of Tangkhuls.

  A scene from the Laiharaoba's Tangkhul Saba and a Nurabi
A scene from the Laiharaoba's Tangkhul Saba and a Nurabi :: Pix - Hueiyen Lanpao



About the Angom Salai, a considerable segment of the clan is believed to be comprised of Tangkhuls who migrated from the Khangkhui Tangkhul village. Similarly, the Tangkhul Chahong clan, also known as the Keishing clan, asserts that it originated from the Imphal Valley and settled in Tashar Tangkhul village. As a result, the Tangkhul Chahong claims a connection to the Meitei Angom. Both the Meitei Angom and Tangkhul Chahong clans share the belief that their ancestors descended from the sky.

Regarding the Khuman Salai, it is upheld by Tangkhuls that they belong to a Tangkhul clan that migrated from the Kabaw Valley. Contrary to the Meitei assertion that Poireiton visited Khamnung, the specific location referred to is Kham Lungpha, situated in Khambi Tangkhul village.

Poireiton also paid a visit to a Tangkhul village called "Small Samjok" in the Kabaw Valley, where he met his kinsmen such as Tangkhuls, Moyons, Marings, Anals, and others, as well as other locations in the southern region. Notably, during his expedition, Poireiton did not venture to the Chin Hills nor the present-day Churachandpur side.

Consequently, the assertion that the Meiteis possess more Chin ancestry than Nagas lacks a solid basis. Furthermore, the name Khuman can also signify "Old Village" since the words Kha, Khu, Khul, and Khun are commonly found among both Nagas and Meiteis and cannot be exclusively attributed to the Chin community.

Tangkhul's' account of the Mangang clan presents an intriguing narrative. In Meitei tradition, it is believed that Pakhangba's ancestor was Hung Shitaba. In the Mao and Tangkhul dialects, the term "Hung" signifies the colour red. Within Hungpung village, also known as Hundung, the term "Hung" specifically refers to the clan of the Hundung Chief, symbolizing the "Red Clan".

However, this Meitei clan identifies itself as the "Mangang Clan", which also means the "Red Clan". Because in Manipuri, "Ngang" also denotes the colour red. According to Tangkhul's beliefs, the corona encircling the sun represents the passing of a nobleman from the Hung clan. Conversely, for the Meiteis, the corona signifies the birth of a prince from the Mangang clan.

Additionally, both the Hundung and Mangang clans share a totemistic belief that they are descendants of a mythical serpent, with the Hundung tradition tracing their lineage back to the second offspring of this legendary creature.

Per Hundung tradition, Mangang is the younger brother of the Hundung Chief. In the early days, the life of the Meitei Mangang was marked by immense hardship, with the valley lacking in almost every aspect. During that time, the younger brother relied on his elder counterpart for vital provisions. However, as time passed, the younger brother began neglecting his brother, prompting the elder brother to descend to the valley and assert his rightful share.

The Hundung Chief received his rightful share. This event gave rise to the tradition of Hao Chongba, where the Hundung people, with the Meitei king's permission, would collect desired items from Sana Keithel (the market) during every Hao Chongba festival. On that particular day, the Meiteis would sell only edible items, particularly sweet puff rice or roasted rice (Kabok).

However, this exchange was more than just symbolic "ransacking". It entailed the exchange of gifts. Furthermore, according to Hundung tradition, in each generation, the Meitei king would present a buffalo to the Hundung Chief, symbolizing their clan tradition. In times of enemy attacks, the parent village would always come to the aid of their fellow clansmen, and in return, the clan would offer a buffalo or a Mithun to the parent village, thus maintaining kinship ties.

In 707 AD, Samlong, a Shan or Pong Prince, arrived in the Loktak region during the reign of Meitei king Hongnemyoi Khunjao Naongthingkhong. The Pongs were preoccupied with securing their own position, leaving little time or capacity to conquer distant lands. Samlong surveyed the Imphal Valley for a decade. However, it seems that Samlong was a perceptive observer. Conquering the valley alone was not enough.

He also had to deal with Meitei's brother, the Tangkhuls. If the Shans had engaged in the Imphal valley, their conquest would have been fruitless. Subduing the Tangkhuls would have resulted in prolonged warfare. Therefore, it is likely that the Shans gave up their plan and headed towards Northern Burma.

Similarly, the Khumans could have been the most powerful clan in the valley. However, Poireiton's attempt to secure the throne was unsuccessful. There was something significant behind Pakhangba. The Hundung Chief, who was powerful and located just 40 miles away from Kangla, could always come to the aid of his kinsmen, the Mangangs. Poireiton likely observed the frequent visits of Hundung Tangkhuls to Kangla.

At that time, Hundung stood as the most powerful Tangkhul village, feared by neighbouring communities. The only power that could provide assistance to the Mangangs was their elder brother, the Chief of Hundung. With his help, Pakhangba ascended to the Kangla throne in 33 AD and initiated the consolidation of the Manipur kingdom.

These stories harken back to a time when Manipur was filled with various principalities, each clan holding influence over a specific territory. And one might say, these are mere folklore. However, these stories highlight an unbreakable connection that exists. Tangkhul folklore intricately weaves together the destinies of the Tangkhuls and the Meiteis, serving as a timeless reminder of the unbreakable umbilical bonds that connect these communities.

The richness of Tangkhul traditions offers a deeper understanding of the profound connection between these cultures, inviting us to embrace unity and celebrate the enduring ties that bind us. Preserving and cherishing this vibrant tapestry of our collective past ensures that the unique Meitei-Tangkhul connection remains an inspiration for future generations, fostering a cultural appreciation for years to come.

If you visit any Tangkhul village and gather around a fireplace, the Khullakpa (Chief) is bound to share more stories about the enduring bond between the Tangkhuls and the Meiteis. It wouldn't be surprising if they inquire whether you still light your courtyard during Mera (September-October) to let the Tangkhul brothers know that you are well.

Mera Wayungba is another symbolic cultural bond between the valley people and the Tangkhuls including other Naga tribes. However, at the moment, perhaps, the Hundung Chief is watching with a sense of sadness as he witnesses the suffering and violence endured by his Meitei brothers.


* Yenning wrote this article for The Sangai Express
Yennig can be reached at hoiyenning(AT)proton(DOT)me
This article was webcasted on 20 July 2023.



* Comments posted by users in this discussion thread and other parts of this site are opinions of the individuals posting them (whose user ID is displayed alongside) and not the views of e-pao.net. We strongly recommend that users exercise responsibility, sensitivity and caution over language while writing your opinions which will be seen and read by other users. Please read a complete Guideline on using comments on this website.




LATEST IN E-PAO.NET
  • Violence in Manipur 2023-2025 : Timeline
  • Kainkhol wins best Social Message Film Award
  • Distortion of facts: Manipur sports movement
  • Govt services reach Manipur's tribal villages
  • 134th Durand Cup Trophies Flag Off
  • COVID-19: Update 05 July 2025 : Manipur
  • First-Ever Tripura Esports Championship
  • Konung Kang Chingba #1 : Gallery
  • Manipur Iskcon's 25th Ratha Yatra 2025
  • Native Threshing machine made for farmers
  • COVID-19: Update 04 July 2025 : Manipur
  • Riso Ejang: Youth-led Transformation
  • Include males too in addressing HPV
  • Whispers from the past :: Poem
  • LPU opens permanent outreach centre
  • Raj Bhavan moving on the right track
  • Speculations over PM Modi's visit to state
  • Colonial Knowledge Production in NE #7
  • Make Yourself Visible to Opportunity
  • Orange bowl: tradition with ecological wisdom
  • 10 ways to keep a kitchen garden disease free
  • Between PR, military mandates & AFSPA
  • Allocation fund for MLALAD Fund during PR
  • Denounces Killing of KNA Deputy C-in-C
  • COVID-19: Update 03 July 2025 : Manipur
  • Cases of fake Aadhaar cards
  • Sincere dealing must for stricter Aadhaar
  • Archaeology: Culture of Manipur : Booklet
  • Wanna be a singer? Get Botox
  • A Central institute in Manipur
  • Nagging in the name of love
  • COVID-19: Update 02 July 2025 : Manipur
  • 'Benefits' of Indira's Emergency
  • Social Stigma :: Poem
  • Inking a peace pact: Why, how: SoO quagmire
  • Van Mahotsav under shadow of declining forest
  • 11th Th Kishan Memorial Lecture : Gallery
  • Shinthoibi, Jangvei, Tamphaton : eMing
  • Manipur crisis & the Left media's blind spot
  • COVID-19: Update 01 July 2025 : Manipur
  • Bombom RK : Musclemania Universe NYC
  • The Grief :: Poem
  • Music Concert & Quiz (MCQ) 2.0
  • SoO agreement unlikely to be scrapped
  • Regulating use of plastic carry bags
  • Mera Houchongba @Kangla #4 : Gallery
  • International Day of Yoga @JNMDA : Gallery
  • BD Behring: The inimitable Gentleman I knew
  • Violence in the name of patriotism : Misguided
  • Daily oral vs long-acting injectable for HIV
  • COVID-19: Update 30 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Smile :: Poem
  • Why was President's Rule imposed ?
  • BJP under pressure to forge unity
  • Kang @Leikai in Imphal : Gallery
  • July Calendar for Year 2025 : Tools
  • COVID-19 : A recurring crisis in Manipur
  • DC Kaith and Forestry in Manipur : Book
  • COVID-19: Update 29 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Longing for Peace :: Poem
  • Black badge, slogan protest by peeved scribes
  • Present the true picture before Delhi
  • Pung-Cholom @ Polo Tournament : Gallery
  • Life: A Journey Through Thought & Being
  • Khongjai Hills & Kuki claim to indigeneity
  • Master Time by Managing Information
  • COVID-19: Update 28 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Pride & patriotism in CCpur's army families
  • The Power of Poppy - 87 :: Poem
  • World Decarbonisation Day: green environment
  • Welcome Home - Nganthoi #2 : Gallery
  • Loss of two precious lives from Manipur
  • Balancing civil liberties with public safety
  • COVID-19: Update 27 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Gender equality & human rights are indivisible
  • Stay hydrated this summer season
  • Silent Half of the Sun :: Poem
  • Connecting the dots in the wishlist
  • Assembly record tampering claims by ex-CM
  • The immortal legacy of Pukhramba Kajao
  • International Day against Drug Abuse 2025
  • COVID-19: Update 26 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Black pottery from Ukhrul - tribal heritage
  • Program on "Mission-Drug Free Campus"
  • Play makes a better world
  • Urgent Appeal to the Honourable MLAs
  • Tribal Empowerment Campaign at CCpur
  • Talk doing the round: PM to come
  • 'Emergency' relief for under-fire BJP
  • Golden Jubilee Art Fair @Imphal : Gallery
  • Declaration: Meetei People Convention, Delhi
  • A Flower Among the Rocks :: Review
  • Book Donation Campaign
  • Improved road connectivity boosts livelihoods
  • To Have Great Dreams :: Poem
  • COVID-19: Update 25 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Regret vs Sorry: Technical & moral insight
  • Cocktail of inept Govt, selfish people
  • State trailing others in cleanliness
  • Colonial Knowledge in NE India #6
  • UHI effect & rising temperatures in Manipur
  • Frequent road blockades cripple economy
  • COVID-19: Update 24 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Unite Health with Community health services
  • NSU, Imphal, tops IIRF Ranking 2025
  • Endless conflict :: Poem
  • Pak nobel pish prize for Trump
  • May 3, 2023 - June 24, 2025: Failure of Delhi
  • Hotter days, sudden rainfall no more a rarity
  • "The Great June Uprising" #2 : Gallery
  • How to Build a Career, Lead with Purpose
  • 2nd Foundation Day- Karnataka Meitei Assn
  • COVID-19: Update 23 June 2025 : Manipur
  • NSCN-IM Amnesty threatens to isolate it
  • Sunset :: Poem
  • Intl Yoga Day for a healthier environment
  • Of clogged drains and plastics
  • Poor roads testify Govt indifference
  • Welcome Home - Nganthoi #1 : Gallery
  • The Silent Erosion of Manipuri Language
  • Design health services around people
  • Serene Hills Host Inspiring Int'l Yoga Day
  • COVID-19: Update 22 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Chopper services between Senapati & Imphal
  • High Court Judges interacted with convicts
  • Redyeing the Fabric :: Poem
  • Differences yet to be resolved stand
  • Border fencing rage as solution eludes
  • Radio E-pao: 14 new songs updated
  • Climate Adaptive Agroforestry
  • Manipur overlooked demographic shifts
  • Young designers shine on Fashion Stage
  • COVID-19: Update 21 June 2025 : Manipur
  • International Day of Yoga at Lamphelpat
  • International Day of Yoga at JNMDA
  • The Power of Poppy - 86 :: Poem
  • Keishampat Lairembi Haraoba #1 : Gallery
  • Crisis in Manipur's Contemporary Education
  • Best 8 Performances in Manipuri Cinema
  • Identity: Caught between China & India ?
  • COVID-19: Update 20 June 2025 : Manipur
  • To The Father Who Listens :: Poem
  • How does net suspension affect youths ?
  • Targeting farmers to cripple state's economy
  • The virus is back and spreading
  • Who is afraid of Manipur ?
  • A threatened lily growing at Shirui Hills
  • World Environment Day in Manipur : Gallery
  • Ambubachi Mela at Maa Kamakhya
  • COVID-19: Update 19 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Dolls made from repurposed vegetable refuse
  • Condemns Attack on Farmer & Killing
  • Abhorrent politics of SoO
  • Police arrogance on harmless drivers
  • "The Great June Uprising" #1 : Gallery
  • Solution from Buddhist & Jain perspectives
  • AI sparks employment concerns in Manipur
  • Greatest Foe :: Poem
  • Chief Justice at Relief Camp, Kangpokpi
  • Call for Recognition of a 3rd Category of IDPs
  • Jun 18, 2001- May 3, 2023: Seed of violence
  • Contract scam in hill districts
  • Colonial Knowledge in NE India #5
  • Spaced Out - Panthung Di Kadaaida! : Rvw
  • Condemns the Killing of Abdul Qadir
  • COVID-19: Update 17 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Thoubal aspirant makes Manipur proud
  • Tamenglong hospital brings quality healthcare
  • Chief Justice at Relief Camp, Mayang Imphal
  • Kuki CM & Sixth Schedule
  • Selective protests, selective silence
  • Nailing the culprits need of the hour
  • UK Meetei diaspora run for Myanmar : Gallery
  • Erwin Khundrakpam : NEET-UG 2025 topper
  • Will we rise to #endAIDS challenge or stumble
  • COVID-19: Update 16 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Appeal to Prime Minister: Manipur Crisis
  • Urges Action on Misinformation
  • Condolences : 2 young cabin crew
  • Grateful To Be Alive :: Poem
  • Making bonfire on the roads
  • Aggression yet again, inspite of playing victim
  • Aftermath of flooding @ Khurai #2 : Gallery
  • Zomia, geopolitics, & the struggle for unity
  • COVID-19: Update 15 June 2025 : Manipur
  • Condolences : Demise of 2 Manipuri Girls
  • Manipur unites in grief after Air India tragedy
  • Hail arms recovery as step toward peace
  • Cleanliness Drive at JNIMS Campus
  • Global Wind Day for a clean environment
  • First came the rain, then the heat
  • Rise in Covid-19 cases
  • Thang-Ta Day @Khuman Lampak #3 : Gallery
  • Meetei diaspora in UK runs for Myanmar victim
  • Manipur empower children with disabilities
  • COVID-19: Update 14 June 2025 : Manipur
  • World Blood Donor Day 2025
  • The Power of Poppy - 85 :: Poem
  • A Northeast Gin Makes Its Mark
  • Mera Houchongba @Kangla #3 : Gallery
  • Saluting Nganthoi, Lamnunthem : Joining hand
  • Condolence : Nganthoi & Lamnunthem
  • 50 years of Pebet #2 : Gallery
  • Indo-Naga Talks (From 2012) :: Timeline
  • Colonial Knowledge in NE India #4
  • Namphake Monastery @ Dibrugarh : Gallery
  • Protest @Checkon -AT arrest [Jun 9] : Gallery
  • Protests - AT arrest [Jun 8 night] : Gallery
  • Aftermath of flooding @ Khurai #1 : Gallery
  • /li>
  • Flooding at JNIMS Hospital #2 : Gallery
  • North East NSS Festival @ MU : Gallery
  • 27th Meira Paibi Numit : Gallery
  • Trump's tariff legacy & its global echo
  • Flooding at JNIMS Hospital #1 : Gallery
  • Flooding Imphal East [31 May] #3 : Gallery
  • Flooding Imphal East [31 May] #2 : Gallery
  • Flooding Imphal East [31 May] #1 : Gallery
  • S Nirupama @Miss Universe : Gallery
  • Protesters to Raj Bhavan [May 25]: Gallery
  • Human Chain @Airport road [May 26]: Gallery
  • Miss Shirui Pageant Contestant: Gallery
  • 48 hrs Bandh: protest security forces: Gallery
  • Protest Rally: Journalist harassment: Gallery
  • HSLC 2025: Full Result (Check Roll No)
  • HSLC 2025: Important Info & Grading System
  • HSLC 2025 : Compartmental candidates
  • HSLC 2025 : Comparative Statement
  • HSLC 2025 : Statistical Abstract
  • HSLC 2025 : District Pass Percentage
  • HSLC 2025 : Govt School Pass %
  • HSLC 2025 : Aided School Pass %
  • HSLC 2025 : Private School Pass %
  • People's Convention on 3rd May #2 : Gallery
  • Featured Front Page Photo 2025 #2: Gallery
  • Riya Khwairakpam : HSE Science Topper
  • Keisham Hannah : HSE Arts Topper
  • Warepam Lidia : HSE Commerce Topper
  • HSE 2025 Result : Science Full Result
  • HSE 2025 Result : Arts Full Result
  • HSE 2025 Result : Commerce Full Result
  • HSE 2025 Information / Abbreviation
  • HSE 2025 Topper : Science
  • HSE 2025 Topper : Arts
  • HSE 2025 Topper : Commerce
  • HSE 2025 : Pass Percentage
  • HSE 2025 : Result Abstract
  • HSE 2025 : Candidates with Highest Marks
  • Ougri Lirol :: Part 1 : Ooba Video
  • President's Rule in Manipur : 1967 - 2025
  • Downloadable Manipuri Calendar :: 2025