Who Are the Meitei?
The Meitei (Manipuri) are the dominant ethnic group of Manipur state in northeast India, numbering approximately 1.7-2 million. They speak Meiteilon (Manipuri), a Sino-Tibetan language written in the Meitei Mayek script. The Meitei inhabit the Imphal Valley, the fertile lowland that forms Manipur's heartland. They established the Manipur Kingdom, which maintained independence until British annexation in 1891. The Meitei practice a unique form of Hinduism that absorbed earlier Sanamahism (traditional religion). They are renowned for Manipuri dance, a classical Indian dance form, and thang-ta martial arts. Polo (sagol kangjei) is believed to have originated among the Meitei.
The Manipur Kingdom
The Meitei established a kingdom in the Imphal Valley with a documented history spanning centuries. The kingdom developed sophisticated political institutions, including a council of elders and written chronicles. Relations with neighboring powers—Burma, Ahom Assam, and British India—shaped history. The 18th century saw both expansion and devastating Burmese invasions. King Garib Nawaz imposed Hinduism in the 18th century, though traditional elements persisted. The kingdom maintained independence until the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, when British forces annexed the territory. This royal heritage shapes Meitei identity and claims to distinct political status.
Arts and Culture
Meitei culture has produced acclaimed artistic traditions. Manipuri dance, recognized as one of India's classical dance forms, features graceful movements and spiritual themes, with the Ras Lila depicting Krishna stories. Thang-ta, the Meitei martial art combining sword (thang) and spear (ta), was developed for warfare and ritual. Polo, known locally as sagol kangjei, is claimed as a Meitei invention—the modern game may derive from Manipuri origins. Handloom weaving produces distinctive textiles. The Meitei Mayek script, suppressed during Hinduization, has been revived in education and signage. These traditions represent cultural heritage that distinguishes the Meitei.
Contemporary Meitei
Modern Meitei face complex challenges in a state marked by ethnic tensions. Relations with Naga and Kuki-Chin hill tribes involve disputes over land, resources, and political representation. Insurgent movements have periodically challenged central authority. Economic blockades and political instability have hindered development. Many Meitei have migrated throughout India for education and employment. The revival of Sanamahism (pre-Hindu religion) represents cultural reassertion. Imphal has developed as an urban center with educational institutions and commerce. How the Meitei navigate inter-ethnic relations, political stability, and economic development while preserving their rich cultural heritage shapes Manipur's future.
References
- Parratt, S. N. A. (1980). The Religion of Manipur
- Singh, N. T. (1993). Manipur: A Study
- Devi, L. K. (2002). The Lois of Manipur: Andro, Khurkhul, Phayeng and Sekmai