About Manipur

Manipur: A Jewel of Northeast India

Manipur, nestled in the northeastern region of India, is a state of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is bordered by Nagaland (204 km) to the north, Mizoram (95 km) to the south, Assam (204.1 km) to the west, and shares a 352 km-long international boundary with Myanmar (Burma) to the east and south. The landscape is adorned with lush green valleys, flowing rivers, dense forests, and picturesque lakes. One of the most iconic sites in Manipur is Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India. The lake is famous for its unique floating islands known as phumdis, which serve as the habitat for diverse flora and fauna. These phumdis also host the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the world's only floating national park, which provides a natural habitat for the Sangai, a rare and graceful deer species found only in Manipur.

Climate and People

June in Manipur is generally hot, with average temperatures ranging between 21°C and 29°C. Despite the heat, the state’s verdant beauty and serene environment make it a delightful destination.

Manipur is home to a variety of ethnic communities, including the Meiteis, Nagas, Kukis, Meitei Pangals, Nepalis, and several other tribal groups. Each community brings its own unique language, cuisine, attire, and traditions. Together, they create a vibrant, harmonious society enriched by cultural diversity.

Imphal: The Capital City

The capital, Imphal, is a lively city steeped in history. Key landmarks include the Kangla Fort, once the seat of Manipur’s royal rulers, and the revered Shree Shree Govindajee Temple. Another notable site is Ima Keithel or Mother's Market , the only market in the world run entirely by women— a testament to the strong role women play in Manipuri society.

Festivals and Cultural Celebrations

Manipur celebrates a wide range of festivals that showcase its artistic and cultural brilliance. The Sangai Festival, held every November, is a grand celebration of the state’s art, music, dance, food, crafts, and sports. The Shirui Lily Festival, held in Ukhrul, celebrates the blooming of the rare Shirui Lily, a flower found only on the Shirui Hills. These festivals not only unite people from various communities but also bring Manipur’s traditions to the global stage.

Historical Significance

Historically, Manipur was a princely state with shifting borders. Under King Pamheiba (Garibaniwaj) in the 18th century, Manipur conducted several military campaigns into Burma. In 1890, after a Burmese invasion, King Gambhir Singh, with British support, restructured the army and expelled the invaders.

This period eventually led to increased British intervention and the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891, culminating in the Battle of Khongjom on April 23. Here, Major Paona Brajabashi and others laid down their lives defending their land. This day is observed as Khongjom Day. Following their victory, the British captured the Kangla Palace and executed Yuvraj Tikendrajit and General Thangal on August 13, now commemorated as Patriots Day, marking the onset of British rule.

During World War II, Manipur became a crucial battleground between Allied and Japanese forces. On April 14, 1944, the Indian National Army (INA) led by Subhas Chandra Bose hoisted the first free Indian tricolor at Moirang, making it a significant site in India's freedom struggle. The graves of many fallen soldiers from this era are maintained in cemeteries by the British War Graves Commission in Imphal.

Manipur regained sovereignty on August 15, 1947, under the Manipur Constitution Act, establishing a democratic government. The state merged with the Indian Union on October 15, 1949, and achieved full statehood in 1972.

Art and Culture

Manipur is a treasure trove of traditional art and cultural expression. At the heart of its classical heritage is the Raas Leela, a graceful dance form that portrays the divine love between Radha and Krishna, based on Hindu scriptures. This dance, performed with spiritual devotion and elegance, is a cornerstone of Manipuri classical arts.

The state also celebrates Lai Haraoba, a vibrant spring festival held in April–May, where traditional dances symbolize creation, peace, and prosperity. Manipur's diverse tribal communities also perform folk dances during festivals such as Lui-Ngai-Ni, marked by striking costumes, rhythmic movements, and rituals that reflect their deep connection with nature and their aesthetic world.
For more info visit:
https://manipur.gov.in
https://manipurtourism.gov.in