Introduction to Tangkhul Tribal Festivals

The Tangkhul tribe is one of the oldest and chief tribes in Manipur. They inhabit Ukhrul District. The Tangkhul tribe is well known for their colorful dress and costume, and for their lively folk dance and music. Light and dark brown is a formidable color combination that easily identifies the Tangkhuls from other tribes. Even before the arrival of Christianity, the Tangkhul Tribe believed in the existence of divine being and its power over humanity or nature. According to them, Reisangchonmi is the creator of universe. Kameo refers to spiritual being, Ameowa is the master of all spiritual beings and Varivara is the almighty God.

During the period of isolation, the age of village republic, Tangkhul were primarily an agricultural community. They are a hardworking tribe who gave their best they had, physically as well as mentally, to whatever they did and the rest they left it to the benevolence of Ameowa. Then they enjoyed whatever they got out of their pursuit, making life meaningful in a time and honor the great Reisangchonmi had given for them. In this way, they seemingly monotonous cycle of labor and rituals in the life of a farmer becomes a glorious journey. For every step of agriculture process, there existed an accompanying form of ceremony or ritual and celebration. Sixteen types of festivals were celebrated in old days namely Luira (Seed Sowing festival), Yarra (Youth festival), Mangkhap, Dharreo, Chumpha (Harvesting), Thisham (festival for Death), Longra, Khana kasa, Chikhur mathai, Wonyaithing kashun, Manei, Mawonzai, Lui Shomkhamashar, Kashong kahao, Hara khayang, Lui kapha and Kaphani. With ages of time, Many of this festivals were not celebrated now a days. Major festivals celebrated by contemporary Tangkhul are Luira, Yarra, Mangkhap, Dharreo, Chumpha and Thisham. Details accounts of major festivals celebrated will be descript in respective festivals page.