Meitei dragons

Dragons in Meitei mythology

The dragons play a significant role in the legendary accounts of Meitei folklore, Meitei literature, Meitei mythology and Meitei religion (Sanamahism) of Ancient Kangleipak (Ancient Manipur), Medieval Kangleipak (Medieval Manipur) and Modern Kangleipak (Modern Manipur).[1][2][3][4]

The supernatural Hiyang Hirens, shown in a tableau of Manipur state, in a parade in New Delhi.

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Hiyang Hiren change

 
A supernatural Hiyang Hiren

The Hiyang Hiren, also spelt as Hiyang Hilen, is said to be a well furnished race boat. This is often built in the shape of a dragon. Many legends say that it possesses spiritual powers.

Nongshaba change

 

Nongshaba, the dragon lion, is also known as Kanglasha, the dragon of the Kangla, the city of Ancient Manipur. He is a child of Atingkok, the Supreme Being. Unlike his siblings, he always remains in the form of the mythical beast rather than that of a God (human figure).[3][1][5]

Pakhangba change

 

Pakhangba is the youngest son of Leimarel Sidabi, the supreme mother earth goddess. He was given the throne of the universe to protect and rule the world by Atingkok, his father. He could change himself into both a serpentine dragon as well as a human. Several legends revolve around his identity as an ancient historical figure.[6][7][8]

Poubi Lai change

 

Poubi Lai is the tyrant dragon serpent of the primitive Loktak lake. It is one of the popular figures in Meitei folklore and mythology. There are many stories about this huge dragon, who once gained its fame through its notorious nature.[9][10]

Taoroinai change

 

Taoroinai, also spelled as Taoloinai, is a mythical dragon serpent, who lives in the cosmic ocean. It is known for bringing down the divine celestial egg (nonglum) down to earth.[11][12][13]

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  1. 1.0 1.1 Moirangthem Kirti (1993). Folk Culture of Manipur. Manas Publications. ISBN 978-81-7049-063-0.
  2. Lisam, Khomdan Singh (2011). Encyclopaedia Of Manipur (3 Vol. p. 582. ISBN 978-81-7835-864-2.
  3. 3.0 3.1 North East India History Association. Session (1990). Proceedings of North East India History Association. The Association.
  4. Mason, Jennifer (2017). Dragon Myths. Gareth Stevens Publishing LLLP. p. 11. ISBN 978-1-5382-1368-1.
  5. Internationales Asien Forum: International quarterly for Asian studies. Weltform Verlag. 1989
  6. Museum, Indian (1998). Bulletin - Indian Museum.
  7. Bahadur, Mutua; Santabai, Y. (1989). Tribal Art of Manipur. Mutua Museum.
  8. Mohd. Anis Md. Nor (2012). Dancing Mosaic: Issues on Dance Hybridity. Cultural Centre, University of Malaya. ISBN 978-967-03-8017-9.
  9. 'Story of a Giant Poubi lai' show begins on Jan 7
  10. Manipur's Loch Ness monster and other folktales at Wari-Jalsa storytelling fest - The Week
  11. Dzuvichu, Lipokmar; Baruah, Manjeet (2017). Modern Practices in North East India: History, Culture, Representation. Taylor & Francis. p. 350. ISBN 978-1-351-27134-9.
  12. Wahengbam Ibohal (1986). The History of Manipur: An early period. Manipur Commercial Company.
  13. Lisam, Khomdan Singh (2011). Encyclopaedia Of Manipur (3 Vol. p. 578. ISBN 978-81-7835-864-2.