Some Manipuri Words

© Abhishek Avtans

Kangleipak
Manipur has also been known as Kangleipak in Meiteilon (Manipuri) language. It is believed that Kangleipak is made up of two words Kang (from akangba i.e. dry) + leipak (flat land). This name could be reflective of the climate change phenomenon in Imphal valley. The name Kangleipak marks the drying of Loktak lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the Indian subcontinent. It is believed that the Meiteilon speaking people started inhabiting these dry lands leaving behind their earlier homes on highlands.

Mayāng
Mayāng is a Manipuri exonym for people from the western side of Manipur, i.e. non-manipuri Indians, Nepalis & Bangladeshis. In Imphal valley, it is used as a word for outsiders. Its usage is similar to Dhkar in Jaintia hills, Bangal in Garo hills (Meghalaya). And Vai in Mizoram. Their usage can be compared to Spanish word Gringo for white Americans or English ethnic slurs like Gypsy for Romani people.

Singju
Singju is a Manipuri salad prepared with finely chopped cabbage, onions, lotus stems, cluster beans, coriander, ginger, peanuts, chili flakes, Besan, perilla powder, sesame seeds, salt and other seasonal vegetables.

Thank you in Manipuri

thagatchari (थागतचरी) = Thank you!

yamna thagatchari (यामना थागतचरी) =Thank you very much.