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Lanmi (Meitei culture)

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A Classical Meitei sculpture of an ancient Meitei cavalry soldier, trying to throw an Arambai weapon backwards (traditionally towards the pursuing enemies), while riding on a galloping Meitei horse (Manipuri pony)
Sculptures of Meitei prince Daku Ningthou Sana Herachandra, riding a Meitei horse and holding an Arambai poisoned dart-like weapon, and King Nara Singh (standing)

Lanmi (ꯂꯥꯟꯃꯤ),[1] also spelled as Lanmee, refers to the traditional warrior class in Ancient Kangleipak, the early realm of modern day Manipur, a region in northeast India with a long and established martial history. The term Lanmi translates to "man of war" or "warrior" in the Meitei language. The institution of Lanmi played a central role in Manipur’s military system and cultural heritage, especially during its time as an independent kingdom before its integration into Republic of India.[2][3][4]

Historical background

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Further information: History of Manipur
A classical Meitei sculpture of King Gambhir Singh

Manipur was historically an independent kingdom ruled by Meitei monarchs. Its strategic location and frequent conflicts made it necessary for the kingdom to develop a strong and well-organized military force. The foundation of the Lanmi system coincided with the establishment of a centralized administrative structure, notably during the reign of King Meidingu Punshiba (1404–1432).[2]

The military department created under Punshiba was called Shingchep Meira Haijouroi (Torch Swingers). The Lanmis served the king during royal processions and also took part in battles. They carried traditional arms such as swords, spears, and shields and also had ceremonial roles during peace times.[2]

Roles and duties

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In times of war, Lanmis fought as skilled warriors.[2][3][4] During peace, they took on various roles including:

  • Crafting bamboo items and constructing buildings[2][3]
  • Organizing and clearing sites for rituals[2][3]
  • Attending royal animals like elephants and horses[2][3]
  • Guarding criminals and convicts[2][3]
  • Catching specific birds and animals for ceremonial purposes[2][3]

It was customary that husbands of the king’s daughters were not allowed to join the Lanmi ranks. Lanmis also participated in specialized rituals and festivals, including Ayang Chatpa, which involved religious offerings and taboos.[2]

Military organization

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Depiction of royal horsemen guarding a Meitei king, being carried on a howdah, by the imperial elephants

Under King Garibaniwaj (1709–1748)

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The military of Manipur reached its peak during King Garibaniwaj’s rule. He established a formal military structure with three main branches[2][4]:

1. Khong Lanmi (Infantry)[3][4]:

  • Main force of foot soldiers[2]
  • Every male between 18 and 60 was trained via Lallup (compulsory service)[2]
  • Equipped with swords, shields, and spears[2]
  • Organized into Tulis (regiments), each led by a Lallupchingba[2]

2. Sagol Lanmi (Cavalry)[3][4]:

  • Elite horsemen, known for their agility and combat skills[2]
  • Famous for using the Arambai (dart-like weapon)[2]
  • Wore specific uniforms including kokyets (turbans), Lanphi (war cloth), and greaves[2]
  • Used in major battles against external enemies like the Awa (Burmese)[2]

3. Hi Lanmi (Boat Army)[3][4]:

  • Used boats for warfare in marshy terrains and rivers[2]
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Statue of Meitei king Meidingu Nara Singh, the Maharajah of Kangleipak

Several departments existed to support the military, each with specialized roles:

  • Khut-heiba: Made bows, arrows, and ceremonial flags[2]
  • Thangsa Hanba: Produced spear handles, shields, and iron parts[2]
  • Thangsaba: Worked as blacksmiths, making swords and other weapons[2]
  • Arambai-making teams: Involved leather workers, cane workers, and archers[2]
A Meitei warrior carrying the lethal Arambai weapons

Rituals connected to war and hunting

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Traditional Meitei culture integrated rituals into military life to maintain spiritual balance and honor[2]:

  • Yenbum Huiroi Chanba: For absolving sins from improper kills[2]
  • Lanchak Thakpa: Performed by descendants to cleanse ancestors’ war sins[2]
  • Nungoibi Lallu Chanba: Offering skulls to a female deity after war[2]
  • Lanmi Yanba: Ritual "defeat" of the enemy’s commander before actual battle[2]
  • Keiyang Thekpa: Ritual after capturing a tiger[2]
  • Lanbao Tamba: Reporting war success to state deities[2]
  • Thenggou: Spear dance performed by heroes and generals for success[2]
  • Ougri: Sacred chant used for blessing the kingdom or cursing enemies[2]

Military rewards and honors

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Warriors trying to capture or kill a tiger

Manipur had a structured reward system for warriors and hunters:

  • For capturing enemies in war:
    • Honors ranged from shirts of honor to being gifted a royal wife[2]
    • Highest honor was Thangballoi, signifying the capture of 100 enemies or animals[2]
  • For capturing animals:
    • Rewards included land, salt, ceremonial items, and sometimes royal honors[2]

Martial omens and predictions

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Further information: Meitei astronomy

Before going to war, ancient Meiteis practiced various forms of divination:

1. Leichillon Kanglon Yengba: Observing cloud shapes for omens[2]

2. Shaya Miren Yengba: Examining one's shadow or reflection to predict fate in battle[2]

Legacy

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A Meitei horseman in Myanmar
A Meitei horse riding warrior in Myanmar

During the monarchical era, martial training and military service were essential for all able-bodied men in Manipur. The Lanmi system not only protected the kingdom but also defined Meitei identity and pride.[2][3]

In modern times, these traditions have largely faded, but there is growing interest in preserving and reviving Manipur's ancient martial culture. Many scholars and cultural activists advocate for teaching the younger generations about the martial heritage of the Lanmi and its role in shaping Manipur’s history.[2][3]

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ Sharma, H. Surmangol (2006). Written at USA. "Learners' Manipuri-English dictionary (Definitions of Lanmi)". dsal.uchicago.edu (in English and Manipuri). University of Chicago & U.S. Department of Education. Chicago. pp. 171, 194. Retrieved 2025-06-27.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: date and year (link)
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap Singha, H Rajmani (2023). "Military Administration of Manipur". International Journal of Research in Social Sciences. Assam University, Silchar. US: International Journal of Research in Social Sciences (Vol. 13 Issue 08, August 2023). pp. 220–228. ISSN 2249-2496.
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l Singh, Moirangthem Boby (2024). "Martial Tradition of Manipur: A Historical Perspective | Volume 2 | Issue 8 | August 2024". The Academic. Department of History, Manipur University. India: International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research. pp. 219–224.
  4. ^ a b c d e f "MILITARY ORGANIZATION OF THE ANCIENT KINGDOM OF MANIPUR (by Mk. Washima Begum, Subhaarati Oinam, Sougrakpam Dharmen Singh)". ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing Arts. pp. 123–129. ISSN 2582-7472.
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