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'''Thangching'''<ref>https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2021/2/5/Dr-Mangangcha-Thoudam-Laiba-Contd-from-previous-issueIt-is-called-Yai-The-place-is-called-Kanglei-Pungmayol-because-of-it-being-the-residence-of-the-two-Supreme-God-and-Goddess-it-is-called-Ma.amp.html</ref> ({{lang-omp|ꯊꯥꯡꯆꯤꯡ}}), also spelled as '''Thangjing''' ({{lang-mni|ꯊꯥꯡꯖꯤꯡ}}), is a primordial deity in [[Meitei mythology]] and [[Meitei religion|religion]]. He is the Guardian of the South West direction.<ref>http://www.manipuri.itgo.com/the_lais.html#thangjing</ref> He is the presiding deity of [[Ancient Moirang]], a province in [[Ancient Manipur]]<ref>https://books.google.co.in/books?id=vDduAAAAMAAJ&dq=thangjing&focus=searchwithinvolume&q=thangjing+moirang+ancient+manipur</ref>, where he rules at supreme on the banks of the [[Loktak lake]].<ref>https://books.google.co.in/books?id=Qs4BAAAAMAAJ&dq=thangjing&focus=searchwithinvolume&q=thangjing+loktak+bank</ref><ref>https://books.google.co.in/books?id=vDduAAAAMAAJ&q=thangjing&dq=thangjing&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi91vGU4vruAhXLIbcAHRhBBKEQ6AEwBnoECAkQAw</ref><ref>http://www.manipuri.itgo.com/the_lais.html#thangjing</ref> Two of his greatest pantheons are the [[Ebudhou Thangjing Temple|Thangching Temple]] and the [[Thangjing Hill|Thangching Hill]]. Legend says that Thangjing made goddess [[Phouoibi]] to incarnate in a human birth in [[Ancient Moirang|Keke Moirang]] to prosper the human civilization.<ref>https://books.google.co.in/books?id=vDduAAAAMAAJ&dq=thangjing&focus=searchwithinvolume&q=Lord+Thangjing+made+incarnated+moirang+</ref>
{{Infobox deity
[[File:Plate_11-1_Folk-Lore,_vol._24.jpg|thumb]]
| type        = Meitei
{{Infobox deity|name=Thangjing|animals=[[White tiger]] and [[horse]]|dynasty=Moirang dynasty|festivals=[[Lai Haraoba]]|region=[[Ancient Moirang]]|ethnic_group=[[Meitei ethnicity]]|gender=Male|texts=[[Moirang Ningthourol Lambuba]]|mount=[[White tiger]]|weapon=Polo stick|deity_of=Progenitor of the Moirang clan|abodes=[[Heaven]] and [[Earth]]|cult_centre=[[Ancient Moirang]]|affiliation=[[Maikei Ngaakpa Lai]], [[Meitei religion]] ([[Sanamahism]])|script=ꯊꯥꯡꯖꯤꯡ|script_name=Meitei|other_names=Thangching|member_of=Divine polo players|consorts=[[Koiren Leima|Ayangleima Ahal]], [[Koiren Leima|Ayangleima Atompi]]}}
| name        = Thangching
| deity_of    = Founder God of the Moirang clan
| member_of    = [[Lainingthou]]s, [[Maikei Ngaakpa Lai]]s and [[Umang Lai]]s
| image        = ꯏꯄꯨꯊꯧ ꯊꯥꯡꯆꯤꯡ ꯑꯃꯁꯨꯡ ꯃꯍꯥꯛꯀꯤ ꯅꯨꯄꯤ.jpg
| alt          = <!-- for alternate text of the title image per [[WP:ALT]] -->
| caption      =
| other_names  = Thangjing
| hiro        =
| Old_Norse    =
| script_name  =
| script      =
| affiliation  = [[Meitei mythology]] ([[Manipuri mythology]]) and [[Meitei religion]] ([[Sanamahism]])
| cult_center  = [[Ancient Moirang]]
| abodes      = [[Heaven]] and [[Earth]]<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=XxovEAAAQBAJ&q=Thangjing%2C+the+guardian+god+of+Moirang%2C+saw+from+the+heavens+&pg=PT53|title=And That Is Why... Manipuri Myths Retold|last=Roy|first=L. Somi|date=2021-06-21|publisher=Penguin Random House India Private Limited|isbn=978-93-91149-65-9|language=en}}</ref>
| planet      = <!-- or | world = -->
| weapon      = Polo stick
| battles      =
| artifacts    = <!-- or | artefacts = -->
| animals      = [[White tiger]] and [[horse]]
| symbol      = <!-- or | symbols = -->
| adherents    =
| height      =
| age          =
| tree        =
| day          =
| color        = <!-- or | colour = -->
| number      =
| consorts    = [[Koiren Leima|Ayangleima Ahal]], [[Koiren Leima|Ayangleima Atompi]]
| parents      =
| siblings    =
| offspring    = <!-- or | children = -->
| predecessor  =
| successor    =
| army        =
| mount        = [[White tiger]] and [[horse]]
| texts        = [[Moirang Ningthourol Lambuba]]
| gender      = Male
| Greek_equivalent    =
| Roman_equivalent    =
| Etruscan_equivalent  =
| Christian_equivalent =
| Slavic_equivalent    =
| Hinduism_equivalent  =
| Canaanite_equivalent =
| equivalent1_type =
| equivalent1 =
| equivalent2_type =
| equivalent2 =
| region      = [[Ancient Moirang]]
| ethnic_group = [[Meitei ethnicity]]
| festivals    = [[Lai Haraoba]]
}}
{{Meitei deities}}
'''Thangching'''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2021/2/5/Dr-Mangangcha-Thoudam-Laiba-Contd-from-previous-issueIt-is-called-Yai-The-place-is-called-Kanglei-Pungmayol-because-of-it-being-the-residence-of-the-two-Supreme-God-and-Goddess-it-is-called-Ma.amp.html|title=The God Lainingthou Thangching Koylellai|website=www.thesangaiexpress.com}}</ref> ({{lang-omp|ꯊꯥꯡꯆꯤꯡ}}) or '''Thangjing''' ({{lang-mni|ꯊꯥꯡꯖꯤꯡ}}) is a primordial deity in [[Meitei mythology]] and [[Meitei religion|religion]] of [[Ancient Kangleipak]] ([[Antique Manipur]]).  
He is the ruling deity of the [[Moirang dynasty]] of [[Ancient Moirang]].<ref name="Prakash 2007">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wxkC9S2jYCkC&dq=He+ruling+deity+Moirang+dynasty+history+Moirang+woven+around+divine+power+this+deity+citizens+Moirang+Lord+Thangjing+living+God+khamba+thoibi+relation+temple+Loktak+lake+Moirang&pg=PA1557|title=Encyclopaedia of North-East India|last=Prakash|first=Col Ved|date=2007|publisher=Atlantic Publishers & Dist|isbn=978-81-269-0706-9|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=-SO7stGa7jQC&q=God+-+Thangjing+ruling+deity+Moirang+&pg=PA107|title=Northeast: Diverse Complexity|last=Chaudhury|first=Dipanjan Roy|date=2008|publisher=Har-Anand Publications Pvt. Limited|isbn=978-81-241-1437-7|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=XxovEAAAQBAJ&q=Thangjing%2C+the+guardian+god+of+Moirang%2C+saw+from+the+heavens+&pg=PT53|title=And That Is Why... Manipuri Myths Retold|last=Roy|first=L. Somi|date=2021-06-21|publisher=Penguin Random House India Private Limited|isbn=978-93-91149-65-9|language=en}}</ref> He rules supreme on the banks of the landlocked sea, [[Loktak lake]].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Qs4BAAAAMAAJ&q=thangjing+loktak+bank|title=Manipur and the Mainstream|last=Singh|first=N. Tombi|date=1975|publisher=Chitrebirentombichand Khorjeirup|language=en}}</ref><ref name="Session 1999">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vDduAAAAMAAJ&q=Lord+Thangjing+made+incarnated+moirang+|title=Proceedings of North East India History Association|last=Session|first=North East India History Association|date=1999|publisher=The Association|language=en}}</ref> He is one of the four cardinal [[Umang Lai]]s.<ref name="Birajit 81">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PgHgCwAAQBAJ&dq=thangjing&pg=PA81|title=Meeyamgi Kholao: Sprout of Consciousness|last=Birajit|first=Soibam|date=2014-12-01|publisher=ARECOM ( Advanced Research Consortium, Manipur)|language=en|pages=81}}</ref>
The guardianship of the south western direction is alluded to Thangjing and the other directions to [[Koubru]] (north west), [[Marjing]] (north east) and [[Wangbren]] (south east).<ref name="Birajit 81"/><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=C2Q-DwAAQBAJ&q=guardianship+of+the+four+respective+directions+alluded+to+the+Gods+%E2%80%93+Thangjing+for+south%E2%80%93west&pg=PT355|title=Modern Practices in North East India: History, Culture, Representation|last1=Dzüvichü|first1=Lipokmar|last2=Baruah|first2=Manjeet|date=2017-11-13|publisher=Taylor & Francis|isbn=978-1-351-27134-9|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=z8xoJo-GQUIC&q=Thangjing+south+-+west&pg=RA13-PA15|title=Socialist India|date=1973|publisher=Indian National Congress. All India Congress Committee.|language=en}}</ref><ref name="archive.org">{{Cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/feminismintradit0000chak/page/116/mode/2up?q=Thangjing+southwest+lord+tiger+hunters+moirang+southwestern+khamba+thoibi+temple+thang+jing|title=Feminism in a traditional society : women of the Manipur Valley|website=archive.org|year=1984|pages=116|isbn=9780706919677|last1=Chaki-Sircar|first1=Manjusri}}</ref>


==See also==
Two of his most prominent pantheons are the [[Ebudhou Thangjing Temple|Thangching Temple]] and the [[Thangjing Hill|Thangching Hill (Thangjing Peak)]].<ref name="Singh">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=kbu_AwAAQBAJ&q=From+North+to+South%2C+Koubru%2C+Kounu%2C+Loyalakpa%2C+Thangjing+are+four+peaks.+These+four+peaks+are+places+of+worship+of+the+Meitei+race+and+the+names+of+the+peaks+are+given+by+the+names+of+the+gods+whom+the+Meeteis+worship+at+the+peaks.&pg=PA11|title=The Endless Kabaw Valley: British Created Visious Cycle of Manipur, Burma and India|last=Singh|first=Dr Th Suresh|date=2014-06-02|publisher=Quills Ink Publishing|isbn=978-93-84318-00-0|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=manipur.Manipur_and_Religion.The_God_Lainingthou_Thangching_Koylellai_By_Mangangcha_Thoudam|title=The God Lainingthou Thangching Koylellai|website=e-pao.net}}</ref>
* [[Koubru]]
==Sources==
* http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=manipur.Moirang_Kangleirol.Moirang_and_Ebuthou_Thangjing_Part_1
* http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=manipur.Moirang_Kangleirol.Ebuthou_Thangjing_Moirang_Kangleirol_Part_2


==References==
== Origin ==
God Thangjing is a deity of pre-Hindu origin.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=b3TwS0WRn5kC&q=Thangjing+God+presiding+pre+-+Hindu+deity&pg=PA17|title=Elections and political dynamics|last=Singh|first=A. Prafullokumar|date=2009|publisher=Mittal Publications|isbn=978-81-8324-279-0|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pth_7qgEN7IC&q=pre+-+Hindu+Thangjing&pg=PA28|title=Indian States At A Glance 2008-09: Performance, Facts And Figures - North-East And Sikkim|last=Laveesh|first=Bhandari|date=2009|publisher=Pearson Education India|isbn=978-81-317-2348-7|language=en}}</ref><ref name="books.google.com">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7YQ8EAAAQBAJ&q=ancient+temple+of+the+pre-Hindu+deity%2C+Lord+Thangjing+Koirel+Lai+%28sacred+groves+of+Moirang+Thangjng%29+is+situated+here.+In+the+month+of+May%2C+men+and+women%2C+dressed+in+colourful+traditional+costumes+sing+and+dance&pg=PA72|title=Ecotourism Development Ventures in Manipur: Green Skill Development and Livelihood Mission|last=Singh|first=Arambam Sanatomba|date=2021-06-18|publisher=Walnut Publication|isbn=978-93-91145-59-0|language=en}}</ref><ref name="Kohli 2002">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GIs4zv17HHwC&dq=ancient+temples+pre+-+Hindu+deity+Thangjing+year+month+May+men+women+dressed+colourful+traditional+costumes+sing+dance+Moirang+Lai+Haraoba+ritual&pg=PA183|title=Mountains of India: Tourism, Adventure and Pilgrimage|last=Kohli|first=M. S.|date=2002|publisher=Indus Publishing|isbn=978-81-7387-135-1|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=xegDAAAAMBAJ&q=ancient+temple+pre-Hindu+deity%2C+Lord+Thangjing&pg=PT90|title=Pratiyogita Darpan|last=Darpan|first=Pratiyogita|date=2008|publisher=Pratiyogita Darpan|language=en}}</ref>
The [[Moirang Ningthourol Lambuba]] mentioned that [[Ancient Moirang|Moirang]] was the amalgamation of different groups of people with different traditional beliefs. During the reign of King Fang Fang Ponglenhanpa (52 BC- 28 AD), all the diversities were merged into one with God Thangjing as the central figure.<ref name="Birajit 82">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PgHgCwAAQBAJ&dq=thangjing&pg=PA82|title=Meeyamgi Kholao: Sprout of Consciousness|last=Birajit|first=Soibam|date=2014-12-01|publisher=ARECOM ( Advanced Research Consortium, Manipur)|language=en|pages=82}}</ref>
 
When the cult of God Thangjing was merged into the [[Umang Lai]]sm, the folk deities associated with God Thangjing began to be identified with other [[Umang Lai]]s. One example is that of goddess Ayang Leima Ahal and goddess Ayang Leima Atonpi. These two goddesses were originally associated with fertility and agriculture. This fact is evident in the ritualistic songs praising them. Later, these two female deities were identified as the consorts of God Thangjing.<ref name="Birajit 82"/>
 
When God Thangjing was identified as an [[Umang Lai]], the identity of the two goddesses was associated with that of goddess [[Panthoibi]]. Thus, the new identity of Goddess Ayang Leima Panthoibi was formed.<ref name="Birajit 82"/>
 
== Description ==
Thangjing is described as the Lord of the tiger hunters.<ref name="archive.org"/> The [[Moirang Ningthourol Lambuba]] describes God Thangjing as the Divine Chief of Koireng people, the Progenitor of Kege Clan, the Protector of all the domestic as well as wild animals and the Lord of Mahui tribe.<ref name="Birajit 82"/>
 
[[File:Khamba_and_Thoibi_(The_Dance_before_the_King).jpg|thumb|300px|center|[[Khuman Khamba]] and [[Moirang Thoibi]] performing a dance before the Thangjing Temple in [[Ancient Moirang]]]]
 
The history of [[Moirang]] is always associated with the godly powers of Thangjing. Thangjing is a living God to the people of [[Ancient Moirang]]. The epic legend of the [[Khamba Thoibi]] is always related to God Thangjing. The ancient temple dedicated to Thangjing still stands on the banks of [[Loktak lake]] in the present day [[Moirang]].<ref name="Prakash 2007"/><ref name="archive.org"/>
== Mythology ==
In the legendary epic [[Khamba Thoibi]], Lord Thangjing always stands for righteousness and as a saviour of [[Khuman Khamba|Khamba]].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=d8jlWVP4uKsC&q=Looming+large+in+the+background+is+Lord+Thangjing+who+stands+for+righteousness+.+He+serves+as+saviour+of+Khamba+as+Lord+Krishna+did+for+the+Pandavas&pg=PA35|title=Khwairakpam Chaoba Singh|last=Singh|first=Rajkumar Mani|date=2002|publisher=Sahitya Akademi|isbn=978-81-260-1519-1|language=en}}</ref>
 
Thangjing sent [[Phouoibi]] to [[Ancient Moirang|Kege Moirang (Keke Moilang)]] to prosper the human world.<ref name="Session 1999"/>
 
When goddess [[Panthoibi]] was searching for her beloved [[Nongpok Ningthou]], she asked God Thangjing and God [[Wangbren]] about the whereabouts of [[Nongpok Ningthou]].
To Thangjing, she said:
<blockquote>
O! Thangjing,
Supreme God of Moirang,
Loktak is your mirror,
My beloved Nongpok has gone like a wind,
Like a cattle looking for its herd,
I am looking for my beloved.
Please tell me
Does he come to your country?<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=j7E2EAAAQBAJ&dq=thangjing&pg=PA77|title=The Sound of Pena in Manipur|last=Meitei|first=Mayanglambam Mangangsana|date=2021-06-06|publisher=Marjing Mayanglambam|isbn=978-93-5473-655-1|language=en}}</ref>
</blockquote>
 
== Worship ==
[[File:Plate_11-1_Folk-Lore,_vol._24.jpg|thumb|300px|The enticement ceremony of God Thangjing in [[Moirang]], a photograph by Col. John Shakespear before 1913]]
Thangjing had been worshipped since ancient times. Still today, there is an ancient shrine at [[Moirang]]. An annual ritual festival known as [[Lai Haraoba|Thangjing Haraoba]] is held early in summer in honor of the God.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=gxqeDwAAQBAJ&q=Even+Thangjing+had+been+worshipped+through+the+ages.+Even+to-day+there+is+a+shrine+at+Moirang+where+an+elaborate+ritual+festival+known+as+Thangjing+Haraoba+is+held+annually+early+in+summer&pg=PA20|title=Glimpses of Manipuri Culture|last=Devi|first=Dr Yumlembam Gopi|publisher=Lulu.com|isbn=978-0-359-72919-7|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LXj2DwAAQBAJ&q=Moirang+is+also+the+abode+of+Thangjing%2C+the+most+venerated+deity.+Another+colourful+religious+dance%2C+Lai+Haraoba+is+celebrated+in+May+in+honour+of+Thangjing.+The+temple+HEART+OF+MANIPUR+of+Thangjing&pg=PA7|title=AKASHVANI: Vol. XXXII, No.49 ( 3 DECEMBER, 1967 )|last=Delhi|first=All India Radio (AIR), New|date=1967-12-03|publisher=All India Radio (AIR),New Delhi|language=en}}</ref>
During the annual [[Lai Haraoba|Thangjing Lai Haraoba]] festival, traditional dances and sports are performed as rituals. The performers follow the ancient customs of wearing the traditional attires of the royal lords and ladies.<ref name="books.google.com"/><ref name="Kohli 2002"/><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=kMNiDwAAQBAJ&q=Every+year%2C+festivals+of+traditional+dances+and+sports+are+performed+as+rituals+during+Thangjing+Lai+Haraoba%2C+the+ancient+customs+of+the+royal+lords+and+ladies+wearing+traditional+attire+occupied+their+seats%2C+a+remnant+of+the+legend+of+Moirang+Leibak+Kingdom&pg=PT85|title=Apology|last=Singh|first=T. S. P.|date=2018-05-31|publisher=Partridge Publishing|isbn=978-1-5437-0188-3|language=en}}</ref> The festival is celebrated during the [[Meitei calendar|Meitei lunar month]] of Kalen. It continues for a week.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QQWMc7_qj4kC&dq=Moirang+Lai+-+Haraoba+celebrated+honour+Lord+Thangjing+month+kalen+continues+week&pg=PA167|title=History, Religion and Culture of India|last=Gajrani|first=S.|date=2004|publisher=Gyan Publishing House|isbn=978-81-8205-065-5|language=en}}</ref> [[Meitei people|Meitei]]s from all over [[Manipur]] visit the [[Ebudhou Thangjing Temple|Thangjing Temple]] in [[Moirang]].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=enE9kdIKqCQC&q=Meitheis+from+all+over+Manipur+visit+Moirang+because+of+all+important+Thangjing+temple&pg=PA75|title=Water of India: (quality and Quantity)|last=Ghosh|first=G. K.|date=2002|publisher=APH Publishing|isbn=978-81-7648-294-3|language=en}}</ref>
== Namesakes ==
=== In flora ===
[[File:Euryale_ferox.jpg|thumb|300px|Thangjing plant (''Euryale ferox'')]]
The [[Euryale ferox|Thangjing plant (''Euryale ferox'')]] is an aquatic plant that bears edible seeds. Its seeds are called "foxnuts" and are one of the most popular food items in [[Meitei cuisine]] of [[Manipur]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://medicinalplants.co.in/thangjing/|title=Thangjing|website=medicinalplants.co.in}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=education.Science_and_Technology.Thangjing_A_potential_aquatic_cash_crop_in_Manipur_By_N_Irabanta|title=Thangjing – A potential aquatic cash crop in Manipur|website=e-pao.net}}</ref>
 
=== In geography ===
The [[Thangjing Hill|Thangjing Peak (Thangjing Hill)]] is one of the four peaks, the others being the Koubru, the Kounu and the Loyalakpa. These peaks are the holy places of worship of the [[Meitei ethnicity]]. Their names are derived from the names of the deities whom the [[Meitei people|Meitei]]s worship at the peaks.<ref name="Singh"/>
 
== Related pages ==
* [[Koubru]] - north west protector
* [[Marjing]] - north east protector
* [[Wangbren]] - south east protector
 
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}
== Other websites ==
* [https://en.wikisource.org/w/index.php?search=Thangjing&title=Special%3ASearch&profile=default&fulltext=1&ns0=1&ns100=1&ns102=1&ns106=1&ns114=1 Thangjing_English Wikisource]
* [https://archive.org/search.php?query=Thangjing&sin=TXT Thangjing_archive.org]
* [http://e-pao.net/epSearchResults.asp?cx=partner-pub-3342616103029311%3A3788634109&cof=FORID%3A10&ie=UTF-8&q=Thangjing&sa.x=20&sa.y=15 Thangjing_e-pao.net]
[[Category:Meitei gods and goddesses]]
[[Category:Meitei gods and goddesses]]
{{simple-Wikipedia}}
{{simple-Wikipedia}}

Latest revision as of 19:53, 16 March 2022

Thangching
Founder God of the Moirang clan
Member of Lainingthous, Maikei Ngaakpa Lais and Umang Lais
ꯏꯄꯨꯊꯧ ꯊꯥꯡꯆꯤꯡ ꯑꯃꯁꯨꯡ ꯃꯍꯥꯛꯀꯤ ꯅꯨꯄꯤ.jpg
Other namesThangjing
AffiliationMeitei mythology (Manipuri mythology) and Meitei religion (Sanamahism)
Major cult centerAncient Moirang
AbodesHeaven and Earth[1]
WeaponPolo stick
AnimalsWhite tiger and horse
MountWhite tiger and horse
TextsMoirang Ningthourol Lambuba
GenderMale
RegionAncient Moirang
Ethnic groupMeitei ethnicity
FestivalsLai Haraoba
ConsortsAyangleima Ahal, Ayangleima Atompi
Meitei gods and goddesses
series
PANTHOIPI.jpg
Heavenly gods and goddesses
Netherworld gods and goddesses

Thangching[2] (Old Manipuri: ꯊꯥꯡꯆꯤꯡ) or Thangjing (Meitei: ꯊꯥꯡꯖꯤꯡ) is a primordial deity in Meitei mythology and religion of Ancient Kangleipak (Antique Manipur). He is the ruling deity of the Moirang dynasty of Ancient Moirang.[3][4][5] He rules supreme on the banks of the landlocked sea, Loktak lake.[6][7] He is one of the four cardinal Umang Lais.[8] The guardianship of the south western direction is alluded to Thangjing and the other directions to Koubru (north west), Marjing (north east) and Wangbren (south east).[8][9][10][11]

Two of his most prominent pantheons are the Thangching Temple and the Thangching Hill (Thangjing Peak).[12][13]

Origin[edit]

God Thangjing is a deity of pre-Hindu origin.[14][15][16][17][18] The Moirang Ningthourol Lambuba mentioned that Moirang was the amalgamation of different groups of people with different traditional beliefs. During the reign of King Fang Fang Ponglenhanpa (52 BC- 28 AD), all the diversities were merged into one with God Thangjing as the central figure.[19]

When the cult of God Thangjing was merged into the Umang Laism, the folk deities associated with God Thangjing began to be identified with other Umang Lais. One example is that of goddess Ayang Leima Ahal and goddess Ayang Leima Atonpi. These two goddesses were originally associated with fertility and agriculture. This fact is evident in the ritualistic songs praising them. Later, these two female deities were identified as the consorts of God Thangjing.[19]

When God Thangjing was identified as an Umang Lai, the identity of the two goddesses was associated with that of goddess Panthoibi. Thus, the new identity of Goddess Ayang Leima Panthoibi was formed.[19]

Description[edit]

Thangjing is described as the Lord of the tiger hunters.[11] The Moirang Ningthourol Lambuba describes God Thangjing as the Divine Chief of Koireng people, the Progenitor of Kege Clan, the Protector of all the domestic as well as wild animals and the Lord of Mahui tribe.[19]

Khuman Khamba and Moirang Thoibi performing a dance before the Thangjing Temple in Ancient Moirang

The history of Moirang is always associated with the godly powers of Thangjing. Thangjing is a living God to the people of Ancient Moirang. The epic legend of the Khamba Thoibi is always related to God Thangjing. The ancient temple dedicated to Thangjing still stands on the banks of Loktak lake in the present day Moirang.[3][11]

Mythology[edit]

In the legendary epic Khamba Thoibi, Lord Thangjing always stands for righteousness and as a saviour of Khamba.[20]

Thangjing sent Phouoibi to Kege Moirang (Keke Moilang) to prosper the human world.[7]

When goddess Panthoibi was searching for her beloved Nongpok Ningthou, she asked God Thangjing and God Wangbren about the whereabouts of Nongpok Ningthou. To Thangjing, she said:

O! Thangjing, Supreme God of Moirang, Loktak is your mirror, My beloved Nongpok has gone like a wind, Like a cattle looking for its herd, I am looking for my beloved. Please tell me Does he come to your country?[21]

Worship[edit]

The enticement ceremony of God Thangjing in Moirang, a photograph by Col. John Shakespear before 1913

Thangjing had been worshipped since ancient times. Still today, there is an ancient shrine at Moirang. An annual ritual festival known as Thangjing Haraoba is held early in summer in honor of the God.[22][23] During the annual Thangjing Lai Haraoba festival, traditional dances and sports are performed as rituals. The performers follow the ancient customs of wearing the traditional attires of the royal lords and ladies.[16][17][24] The festival is celebrated during the Meitei lunar month of Kalen. It continues for a week.[25] Meiteis from all over Manipur visit the Thangjing Temple in Moirang.[26]

Namesakes[edit]

In flora[edit]

Thangjing plant (Euryale ferox)

The Thangjing plant (Euryale ferox) is an aquatic plant that bears edible seeds. Its seeds are called "foxnuts" and are one of the most popular food items in Meitei cuisine of Manipur.[27][28]

In geography[edit]

The Thangjing Peak (Thangjing Hill) is one of the four peaks, the others being the Koubru, the Kounu and the Loyalakpa. These peaks are the holy places of worship of the Meitei ethnicity. Their names are derived from the names of the deities whom the Meiteis worship at the peaks.[12]

Related pages[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ↑ Roy, L. Somi (2021-06-21). And That Is Why... Manipuri Myths Retold. Penguin Random House India Private Limited. ISBN 978-93-91149-65-9.
  2. ↑ "The God Lainingthou Thangching Koylellai". www.thesangaiexpress.com.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Prakash, Col Ved (2007). Encyclopaedia of North-East India. Atlantic Publishers & Dist. ISBN 978-81-269-0706-9.
  4. ↑ Chaudhury, Dipanjan Roy (2008). Northeast: Diverse Complexity. Har-Anand Publications Pvt. Limited. ISBN 978-81-241-1437-7.
  5. ↑ Roy, L. Somi (2021-06-21). And That Is Why... Manipuri Myths Retold. Penguin Random House India Private Limited. ISBN 978-93-91149-65-9.
  6. ↑ Singh, N. Tombi (1975). Manipur and the Mainstream. Chitrebirentombichand Khorjeirup.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 Session, North East India History Association (1999). Proceedings of North East India History Association. The Association.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 Birajit, Soibam (2014-12-01). Meeyamgi Kholao: Sprout of Consciousness. ARECOM ( Advanced Research Consortium, Manipur). p. 81.
  9. ↑ Dzüvichü, Lipokmar; Baruah, Manjeet (2017-11-13). Modern Practices in North East India: History, Culture, Representation. Taylor & Francis. ISBN 978-1-351-27134-9.
  10. ↑ Socialist India. Indian National Congress. All India Congress Committee. 1973.
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 Chaki-Sircar, Manjusri (1984). Feminism in a traditional society : women of the Manipur Valley. p. 116. ISBN 9780706919677. {{cite book}}: |website= ignored (help)
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 Singh, Dr Th Suresh (2014-06-02). The Endless Kabaw Valley: British Created Visious Cycle of Manipur, Burma and India. Quills Ink Publishing. ISBN 978-93-84318-00-0.
  13. ↑ "The God Lainingthou Thangching Koylellai". e-pao.net.
  14. ↑ Singh, A. Prafullokumar (2009). Elections and political dynamics. Mittal Publications. ISBN 978-81-8324-279-0.
  15. ↑ Laveesh, Bhandari (2009). Indian States At A Glance 2008-09: Performance, Facts And Figures - North-East And Sikkim. Pearson Education India. ISBN 978-81-317-2348-7.
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 Singh, Arambam Sanatomba (2021-06-18). Ecotourism Development Ventures in Manipur: Green Skill Development and Livelihood Mission. Walnut Publication. ISBN 978-93-91145-59-0.
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 Kohli, M. S. (2002). Mountains of India: Tourism, Adventure and Pilgrimage. Indus Publishing. ISBN 978-81-7387-135-1.
  18. ↑ Darpan, Pratiyogita (2008). Pratiyogita Darpan. Pratiyogita Darpan.
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 19.2 19.3 Birajit, Soibam (2014-12-01). Meeyamgi Kholao: Sprout of Consciousness. ARECOM ( Advanced Research Consortium, Manipur). p. 82.
  20. ↑ Singh, Rajkumar Mani (2002). Khwairakpam Chaoba Singh. Sahitya Akademi. ISBN 978-81-260-1519-1.
  21. ↑ Meitei, Mayanglambam Mangangsana (2021-06-06). The Sound of Pena in Manipur. Marjing Mayanglambam. ISBN 978-93-5473-655-1.
  22. ↑ Devi, Dr Yumlembam Gopi. Glimpses of Manipuri Culture. Lulu.com. ISBN 978-0-359-72919-7.
  23. ↑ Delhi, All India Radio (AIR), New (1967-12-03). AKASHVANI: Vol. XXXII, No.49 ( 3 DECEMBER, 1967 ). All India Radio (AIR),New Delhi.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  24. ↑ Singh, T. S. P. (2018-05-31). Apology. Partridge Publishing. ISBN 978-1-5437-0188-3.
  25. ↑ Gajrani, S. (2004). History, Religion and Culture of India. Gyan Publishing House. ISBN 978-81-8205-065-5.
  26. ↑ Ghosh, G. K. (2002). Water of India: (quality and Quantity). APH Publishing. ISBN 978-81-7648-294-3.
  27. ↑ "Thangjing". medicinalplants.co.in.
  28. ↑ "Thangjing – A potential aquatic cash crop in Manipur". e-pao.net.

Other websites[edit]


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