Ancient Kangleipak

This article is about the antique civilization of the present day Indian state of Manipur. For the ancient kingdom mentioned in the Mahabharata, see Manipur of the Mahabharata.

Ancient Kangleipak, also known as Antique Manipur or Early Meitei Civilisation, was an old civilization flourished in the present day Manipur, India. The Kangla served as the foremost capital city of the realm since time immemorial till the late 19th century AD. It had its earliest recorded evidence of the existence of monarchy right from the reign of Emperor "Tangcha Leelaa Pakhangba" (1445 BC-1405 BC).

History

The earliest recorded history of the existence of monarchy starts with the reign of Tangja Leela Pakhangba in 1445 BC.

The game of polo was invented by King Ningthou Kangba (1405 BC- 1359 BC). This remarkable achievement was recorded in the Kangbalon and the Kangjeirol, two of the old manuscripts of Ancient Meitei language.

Geography

The territory of the antique realm is majorly mountainous, though the central plains is the main place where civilization flourished and was mainly concentrated.

Language

Due to regional variation, though various dialects existed, the Ancient Meitei language was the main principal language of the antique realm. The Wakoklon Heelel Thilen Salai Amailon Pukok Puya was written in 1398 BC (3400 years ago), as verified by the National Archives of India, New Delhi.

Culture

Further information: Meitei culture

Daily life

Most people in Ancient Manipur were engaged in agricultural activities and fishing activities. Only a few were traders and merchants. However, commercial activities were restricted to only a few groups of people, who were given permission by the monarchs.

Architecture

Further information: Meitei architecture

During ancient times, the antique architectural design and way of building houses were truly scientific. They were built in such a way that during winter, they had warming effect and during summer, they had cooling effect.

Religious beliefs

Further information: Meitei religion

During ancient times, the one and the only religion practiced by the people of the realm was the antique Meitei paganism, which is what we called Sanamahism in modern terminology.

Military

Lallup system

Further information: Lallup system

The Lallup system ("Lal " means "war"; "Lup" means "Association" or "Organization") was the predominant military warfare association, in which every men of the more than 16 years of age, were included in membership.