Key facts about Meitei Community

Meitei people are the predominant ethnic group of Manipur state, India.

They speak Meitei language, which is one of the 22 official languages of India and the sole official language of Manipur state.

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The Meitei people primarily settled in the Imphal Valley region, but also have a sizable population in other Indian states and neighboring countries.

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They represent about 53% of Manipur's population and are divided into clans, which do not intermarry.

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Rice cultivation on irrigated fields is the basis of their economy.

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A majority of Meitei people follow Hinduism, while more than 8% are Muslims.

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Yaoshang Festival is celebrated by the Meitei people at the same time as Holi and is known as ‘Manipur’s version of Holi.’

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The five-day-long celebration begins with the burning of ‘yaoshang’, a small thatch hut constructed with bamboo and straws.

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ThabalChongba is a traditional Manipuri folk dance performed during the festival where boys and girls hold hands and sing and dance in a circle.

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The festival marks the rejuvenation of the spirit of life and commemorates the birthday of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

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