Phunal Maring village preserves tradition
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 06 2011:
Even though majority of the Phunal Maring village, under Keirao assembly constituency, have embraced Christianity, some families in this peaceful hamlet are still upholding the age-old custom and beliefs of the indigenous Maring people.
In keeping with the traditions, Lamdaiba ritual and related cultural performances was conducted at the village on November 5 .
As a part of the ritual, approach road to the village was blocked until completion of the ritual after which the local priests led villagers, including elderly men and women, through a procession whilst performing traditional dance all the way back to the village.
It is informed that out of about 200 households, there are 200 non-Christian households in the village.
A village elder namely A Angphul Maring appreciating participation of social worker N Itomba Meetei at the traditional ritual and cultural items of the indigenous Maring people said such a gesture will go a long way in strengthening the fraternal bond between the hill and valley people.
Interacting with the locals, Itomba stressed on the need to uphold and promote tradition of all the indigenous people settled in Manipur.