The Meitei people

The Meitei are the valley people of Manipur, heirs of the Kangla-based kingdom whose coronation rituals, Lai Haraoba ceremonies and Ras Leela dance define the state’s cultural identity. Their language, Meiteilon, is a classical literary tongue with its own ancient script (Meitei Mayek).

Meitei women hold a singular public role: Ima Keithel, the all-women market, and the market-revolts of history are Meitei institutions.

Ask before photographing people or rituals, dress modestly at festivals and ceremonies, accept hospitality graciously, and let local hosts lead. Culture here is lived, not performed: curiosity with manners opens every door.