Religions of Manipur

Christianity, Hinduism and Maibaism are the main religions of Manipur. Apart from these three religions a considerable number of people follow Islam and some follows Buddhism also.

There was a time when the inhabitants of the land used to follow Animism. The religion demanded the worship of the strongest or the spirit which can inflict death. Animal sacrifice was an integral part of the rituals of the religion. With the spread of Hinduism, the religion lost its popularity. King Chorai Rongba was perhaps the first ruler to adopt Hinduism. The rule of Garib Niwaj saw the rise of different cults and sects of Hinduism.

The British and other European missionaries are responsible for the spread of Christianity in Manipur and especially in the hilly regions. They initiated the spread of modern education among the tribal people. They used English and the local languages as the medium of instruction.

Maibaism is still practiced in Manipur. The Maibas are the traditional priests and the religion has connections with the old Manipuri Religion or Animism. The Maibas and the Maibis – the female priests – enjoy the status as hereditary rights. There are two kinds of these ancient priests. One is the Vaid or orthodox physicians and the other is hard core priest who perform religious rituals. These people have to undergo certain restrictions in their regular lives. They also follow a strict dress code.

To know about the Manipur religions, please log into the below mentioned links:

• Christianity in Manipur
• Hinduism in Manipur
• Maibaism in Manipur