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Umang Lai

Traditional Meitei deities From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Umang Lai
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Not to be confused with Lai Khutshangbi or Poubi Lai.

Umang Lai (Meitei: /ū-mang lāi/) refers to a group of ancient Meitei deities of the traditional Meitei religion (Sanamahism) who are worshipped as the local guardians of particular areas, especially sacred groves.[1] These deities are worshipped annually.[2] Their sacred groves are preserved by the Meitei people since ancient times, mostly in the Northeast Indian state of Manipur. Their pleasing ceremony is always celebrated every year through a music and dance festival, known as Lai Haraoba. There are more than 365 Umang Lai shrines in Manipur state alone.[3][4][5] They are integral parts of Meitei mythology, folklore and religion.[6][7] The cults of these deities vary from community to community.[7]

Meetei Mayek
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A sacred grove at Wangoo village in Manipur
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Etymology

"Umang" means "forest" and "Lai" means "deity" in Meitei language (also known as Manipuri language).[7]

List of deities

Umang Lai sacred groves are widely distributed in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur districts of Manipur. The following is the list:

More information Names of deities (prefixed by the locations of their shrines), Note(s) ...
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Present scenario

Presently, these religiously preserved sacred groves are in the situation of being endangered, due to the lack of proper attention and care. These Umang Lais have become the victims of the encroachment and exploitation.[10]

See also

Notes

References

External links

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