Wakhalgee - A Dhamaka of Emotions in Meitei Language Music, Powering Maniwood's Global Pulse

Oinamcha Khumancha Kangleicha *

Thumbnail from the music video "Wakhalgee"
(All rights to the image and music video belong to their respective copyright holders. Used here for editorial purposes only)

From the vibrant heart of Kangleipak to the screens of Manipuri-speaking households across the world, the official music video “Wakhalgee”, literally meaning “of the thought”, featuring the charismatic Bonium and Sonia Samjetsabam, is a cinematic and emotional powerhouse from the film Awaiba Mapu.

With over 10 million views on YouTube and climbing, it’s more than just a Manipuri language song—it’s a movement, pulsating with the spirit of Maniwood, also known as Kangleiwood.

Directed and edited by Ajit Ningthouja, with soul-stirring music by Sorri Senjam and poetic lyrics penned by Romi Meitei, Wakhalgee is a beautifully shot, emotionally loaded narrative set to melody. Bonium’s vocal performance brings deep resonance, while the on-screen chemistry with Sonia Samjetsabam adds just the right amount of cinematic jhatka and romantic intensity.

It’s not just a love song—it’s a full-blown Kangleiwood-style masala moment, complete with carefully choreographed sequences by Bishnu Dhanesh, lavish costumes by Dayarani Kakching, and vibrant visuals from Mohon Kangla’s camera.

This song embodies the growing pride in the Meitei language and Manipuri language arts scene. And while it’s rooted in Manipur’s local flavor, Wakhalgee speaks globally. It connects with the vast Meitei-speaking diaspora now thriving in places like Toronto and Montreal in Canada, New York and California in the USA, Sydney in Australia, London in the UK, South Korea, and of course, across South Asia—especially in Assam, Tripura, the Sylhet Division of Bangladesh, and parts of Myanmar.

The cultural ripple doesn’t stop there. Wakhalgee has also struck a chord with youth from neighboring communities—Assamese, Bodo, Naga, Mizo, Meghalayan (including Khasi, Garo, Jaintia), Dimasa, Tripuri, Nepali, Sylheti, Arunanchali, Burmese, Shan, and even Thai music lovers—who are discovering the passion and cinematic flair that Maniwood brings to the table.

Behind the scenes, it’s a collaborative effort powered by the creative direction of Homeshwori and the vision of writer-producer Ranjit Ningthouja. From drone shots by James to the makeup magic of Jenny Khurai and Russia, and color grading by AB Chand, every frame of Wakhalgee is polished and purposeful.

This is more than a song — Wakhalgee is a landmark that showcases why the Manipuri language music industry is ready for the world stage. Whether you’re part of the diaspora or a curious listener from across the cultural borders, this is one Maniwood masterpiece you won’t want to miss.

Watch “Wakhalgee” on YouTube now and feel the Meitei rhythm echo across continents.

https://youtu.be/gsVxdzuXASA?si=F3G_sH1yTgg3b33c