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Literally the name 'Manipur' translates into "A jeweled land". One of the eight North Eastern states of India, Manipur is known for its abundant greenery and natural beauty. Mrs. St. Clair Grimwood was highly inspired by Manipur's beauty and admitted that its splendor eclipsed that of many beautiful places of the world. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India addressed the state as "Jewel of India".

Apart from being endowed with nature's glory Manipur is also famous as a centre of rich art and culture. The game of Polo originated in this state. Manipur is also known the world over for the famous Raas Lila (a dance form dedicated to Lord Krishna), its classical dance which was created by Rajashree Bhagyachandra

Origin

Just like the other North Eastern states the history of Manipur is quite ancient which centers round the Meitei tribe. On the whole it is varied and interesting.

The princely state of Manipur was ruled by royal members of the Meitei clan till 1891. In that year the Anglo-Manipuri War erupted and the British took over the control of the state after defeating the royal army in that war. In 1941 Maharaja Buddhachandra Singh (1941-1955) became the titular head of the state. Just after his accession the Second World War broke out and the state had to bear the brunt of the marauding Japanese army. The royal palace along with several parts of the kingdom was destroyed. This mayhem came to an end with the defeat of the invading Japanese at the hands of the British army in 1945. After departure of the British in August 1947, the princely state of Manipur was restored back to Maharaja Buddhachandra.

The War Memorial at Imphal bears testimony to the memory of the soldiers who fought and died during the Second World War. The Shaheed Minar is another War Memorial erected at the Bir Tikendrajit Park. This memorial is dedicated in the memory of freedom fighters hanged by the British on 13th August, 1891.

India became independent on August 15th 1947. On October 15th, 1949 Manipur was merged with the country. Finally on the 21st January, 1972 Manipur was accorded statehood.

People and Culture

The major communities of Manipur living in harmony for ages include tribes like Meitei, Naga, Meitei Pangal, Bamon (Brahmins) etc. There are also hill tribes residing in the state such as Tangkul, Mao, Kom, Purum, Ralte, Sema, Salte, Vaiphei, Monsang, Lamgang, and Zhou. The common Lingua Franca of Manipur is Metei-lon or the Meitei/Manipuri language though most of the tribes have their own language, tradition and culture.

Manipur is known for its folklore, myths and legends, dances, local games, martial arts, handloom and handicrafts products. Manipuri art-forms and cultural expressions are very distinct. The famous Manipuri classical dance form is known for its unique style and gestures.

Manipuri womenfolk are very artistic and creative and are experts in singing and dancing. Their creativity is showcased perfectly in their handloom and handicraft products through designs, ingenuity, color and use. Every tribe has their own distinct culture and tradition which comes out in their dances, music, and customary practices.

Fairs and Festivals

Manipur is a state where festivals run throughout the year. Manipuri festivals are full of joy and fun. Some of the important festivals of the state are: -

Gang-ngai- This festival is celebrated by the Kabui Naga community during December-January. It is celebrated for five days. The highlights of this festival are common feasts, dances and presentation of gifts etc.

Lui-ngai-ni- This too is a Naga community festival celebrated on the 15th of February every year and is associated with sowing.

Id-ul-fitr (Ramzan Id)- There are a good number of Muslims in Manipur and for them Id-Ul-Fitr is the most popular festival.

Yaoshang (Doljatra)- Yaoshang is celebrated for five days during February/March and the highlight of this festival is the Thabal Chongba folk dance.

Cheiraoba- Every year, during the month of April the people of Manipur celebrate Cheiraoba. Houses are cleaned and decorated and people prepare different types of dishes which are offered to deities.

Lai-Haraoba- The Lai-Haraoba festival is celebrated in the month of May. This festival is associated with the honour of Umang Lai (Sylvan deity). Traditional deities and ancestors are also honoured during this festival.
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