Seminar on "The Goddess of Learning in Manipuri Society" held
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 14 2026: The School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Khongnangthaba University, successfully organised a 1-Day Seminar on "Manipuri Khunaida Mahei Lairembigi Phida: The Goddess of Leaming in Manipuri Society" at its auditorium in Khurai Konsam Leikai today.

As per a release issued by Khongnangthaba University, the seminar was moderated by Dr K Bheigyachandra Singh, HoD, History, Khongnangthaba University, who facilitated academic discussions on the relevance of the Goddess of Learning in Manipuri society and culture.

The programme featured eminent resource persons, namely Ngariyangbam Khomba Singh (Pandit), Manipur Pandit Loishang; Kondumba (Maibahanba), Utra Shanglen, Sana Konung; and Dr Th Rohichand Singh, Assistant Professor, Department of Umanglai Harouba, Manipur University of Culture.

At the event, speakers shared insights on learning traditions and indigenous knowledge systems.

They shared that the Meitei Goddess of learning is known by the name "Huimu Narengshubi Mukmu Leiton Tengbi", also known as "Shilleima" .

Her sacred abode is believed to lie on the northeastern side of the Seloi Langmai hill range, within the domain of Nongpok Ningthou, and that after the arrival of Hinduism, the site came to be known as Saraswati Kund.

According to the Manipur Pandit Loishang, the ritual is still performed after midnight on the 27th day of the lunar month Lamta at the site, and it is believed that the deity still resides there.

It was also stated that the initiation rite "Silam Sintha Panba" is performed on the 5th day of the lunar month Phairen, and that prayers are traditionally offered to "Huimu Narengshubi Mukmu Leiton Tengbi" on that day.

The seminar concluded with an interactive discussion with the participants.

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