Ethnic groups of Manipur

The ethnic groups of Manipur dominate the state's populace. One of the elite members of the seven sisters that coalesce to form northeast India, the egalitarian Manipur society has a cosmopolitan culture.

Amongst the various tribes who reside in the state of Manipur, the Meiteis and the Tangkhuls deserve special mention. The Meities inhabit the Manipur valley and are an industrious lot. The Meitei men have a sinewy and portly physique. In fact, their slightly corpulent frame is built in a manner that can endure tremendous strain, fight against unfavorable natural conditions and weather hardships. A distinct characteristic of the Meitei men rests in their Mongol features and jet black hair. The Meitei women on the other hand are extraordinarily beautiful. Sharp angular features and improvised Mongol facial characteristics as well as luxuriant growth of ebony colored hair are some of the features that are distinctive of a Meitei woman. The natural beauty of the Meitei woman is accentuated by their fashionable clothes and gold jewelry.

The Tangkhul tribe is another tribe that originates from Nagaland and inhabits extensive portions of Manipur. Locally known as Hao the tribal people converse in a variety of dialects. The literacy rate marked in the tribal community is exemplary and the children are conversant in a variety of languages.

For further information on the Manipur ethnic groups that reflect the Manipur society and culture, navigate to any of the following links:

Ethnic Groups of Manipur