10 Facts About Manipur

Tucked away in the northeastern part of India, Manipur, meaning “the jeweled land,” is one of the country’s most enchanting and culturally rich states. With lush green hills, vibrant festivals, ancient traditions, and a deep sense of pride in its heritage, Manipur is truly a treasure trove for explorers. Known for its natural beauty and martial traditions, this small state plays a significant role in India’s history, sports, and culture.

Here are 10 incredible facts about Manipur that showcase its unique identity and importance in the Indian landscape:

1. Birthplace of Polo – The Game of Kings

One of Manipur’s greatest contributions to the world is the sport of Polo, locally known as Sagol Kangjei. This traditional Manipuri game, played on horseback, is considered the origin of modern polo. British colonial officers were fascinated by the sport during their time in Manipur and introduced it to the Western world in the 19th century.

Today, the Imphal Polo Ground is considered the oldest polo ground in the world that is still in use.

2. Loktak Lake – India’s Only Floating Lake

Loktak Lake, located near Moirang, is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is globally famous for its unique phumdis—floating masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter.

The lake supports local livelihoods, irrigation, hydroelectricity, and biodiversity. It is also home to the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the world’s only floating national park, which shelters the endangered Sangai deer (brow-antlered deer), the state animal of Manipur.

3. Rich Martial Arts Tradition – Thang-Ta and Arambai Hunba

Manipur boasts a rich martial arts heritage that dates back centuries. Traditional combat forms like Thang-Ta (sword and spear fighting) and Arambai Hunba (dart throwing on horseback) were practiced by Manipuri warriors and are deeply embedded in the state’s culture.

These martial arts are not only combat forms but also have religious and ceremonial significance. They are often showcased during festivals and cultural performances.

4. A Hub for Indian Sports Talent

Manipur has earned a reputation as the sports capital of the Northeast. Despite its small population, the state has produced numerous world-class athletes:

• Mary Kom – Olympic bronze medalist and six-time world boxing champion.
• Mirabai Chanu – Olympic silver medalist in weightlifting.
• Bala Devi – India’s first professional female footballer to play in a European league.
• Laishram Sarita Devi – Renowned Indian boxer.

Sports are a way of life in Manipur, with widespread community participation in football, boxing, and weightlifting.

5. Sangai Festival – A Cultural Extravaganza

Held annually in November, the Sangai Festival is Manipur’s largest tourism festival, named after the endangered Sangai deer. The event showcases the state’s:

• Dance and music forms (like Ras Leela and Pung Cholom),
• Indigenous sports,
• Traditional crafts and handlooms,
• Local cuisine, and
• Adventure tourism opportunities.

The festival has helped promote Manipur’s unique heritage and attract both domestic and international tourists.

6. A Land of Classical and Folk Dance – Ras Leela and More

Manipur is a center of classical Indian dance with its own recognized form called Manipuri Ras Leela, known for its graceful movements, expressions of devotion, and spiritual storytelling—particularly around Lord Krishna and Radha.

Other vibrant dance forms include:

• Pung Cholom – A dynamic drum dance.
• Lai Haraoba – A festival with rituals and dances celebrating local deities.

These art forms are performed during festivals, religious occasions, and cultural events across the state.

7. Historical Significance in World War II

Manipur played a strategic role during World War II. The Battle of Imphal (1944) between the Allied forces and the Japanese army was one of the turning points in the Burma Campaign. The fierce fighting around Imphal and Kohima helped halt Japanese advancement into India.

War cemeteries in Imphal are maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and attract military history enthusiasts from across the world.

8. Diverse Ethnic and Tribal Culture

Manipur is home to more than 30 recognized tribes, each with its own language, customs, and traditions. The largest communities include:

• Meiteis (majority in the Imphal Valley)
• Nagas
• Kukis
• Zomis
• Pangals (Manipuri Muslims)

This diversity is celebrated through festivals like Lui-Ngai-Ni, Chavang Kut, and Yaoshang, making Manipur a colorful mosaic of cultures and beliefs.

9. Gateway to Southeast Asia – Strategic Location and Connectivity

Manipur shares a 398-km-long international border with Myanmar, making it a key state under India’s Act East Policy. The Moreh-Tamu border post is a major trading point and holds potential for future connectivity through projects like:

• India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway
• Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project

Manipur is poised to become a hub of cross-border trade, culture, and commerce between India and Southeast Asia.

10. A State of Scenic Beauty and Biodiversity

From the misty hills of Ukhrul to the scenic views of Tamenglong and Churachandpur, Manipur offers stunning natural landscapes. The state’s biodiversity includes rare orchids, endemic birds, and medicinal plants.

Popular eco-tourism destinations:

• Dzukou Valley
• Khonghampat Orchidarium
• Sirohi National Park

Manipur’s unspoiled nature makes it a paradise for trekkers, botanists, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Manipur may be one of India’s smaller states, but it offers a large canvas of culture, history, natural beauty, and human potential. From being the cradle of polo to being home to Olympic champions, from floating lakes to ancient dance forms, every corner of Manipur tells a story worth exploring.

For any Indian or global traveler, Manipur is not just a destination—it’s an experience. As India increasingly looks eastward for growth and cultural ties, Manipur stands proudly as the jewel of the Northeast, offering lessons in resilience, grace, and unity in diversity.