Lanmi (Meitei culture)

Lanmi (), 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 rich 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.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.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."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.

 Historical background 

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).

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.

 Roles and duties 

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

 Crafting bamboo items and constructing buildings

 Organizing and clearing sites for rituals

 Attending royal animals like elephants and horses

 Guarding criminals and convicts

 Catching specific birds and animals for ceremonial purposes

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.

 Military organization 

 Under King Garibaniwaj (1709–1748) 

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

1. Khong Lanmi (Infantry):

 Main force of foot soldiers

 Every male between 18 and 60 was trained via Lallup (compulsory service)

 Equipped with swords, shields, and spears

 Organized into Tulis (regiments), each led by a Lallupchingba

2. Sagol Lanmi (Cavalry):

 Elite horsemen, known for their agility and combat skills

 Famous for using the Arambai (dart-like weapon)

 Wore specific uniforms including turbans, Lanphi (war cloth), and greaves

 Used in major battles against external enemies like the Awa (Burmese)

3. Hi Lanmi (Boat Army):

 Used boats for warfare in marshy terrains and rivers

 Conducted operations on the Ningthi and Barak rivers

 Boat races were held annually as both training and entertainment

 Departments related to military production 

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

 Khut-heiba: Made bows, arrows, and ceremonial flags

 Thangsa Hanba: Produced spear handles, shields, and iron parts

 Thangsaba: Worked as blacksmiths, making swords and other weapons

 Arambai-making teams: Involved leather workers, cane workers, and archers


 Rituals connected to war and hunting 

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

 Yenbum Huiroi Chanba: For absolving sins from improper kills

 Lanchak Thakpa: Performed by descendants to cleanse ancestors’ war sins

 Nungoibi Lallu Chanba: Offering skulls to a female deity after war

 Lanmi Yanba: Ritual "defeat" of the enemy’s commander before actual battle

 Keiyang Thekpa: Ritual after capturing a tiger

 Lanbao Tamba: Reporting war success to state deities

 Thenggou: Spear dance performed by heroes and generals for success

 Ougri: Sacred chant used for blessing the kingdom or cursing enemies

 Military rewards and honors 

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
 Highest honor was Thangballoi, signifying the capture of 100 enemies or animals

 For capturing animals:
 Rewards included land, salt, ceremonial items, and sometimes royal honors

 Martial omens and predictions 

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

1. Leichillon Kanglon Yengba: Observing cloud shapes for omens

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

 Legacy 

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.

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.

 Gallery 

 Related pages 
 Shamu (Meitei culture)
 Meitei confederacy
 Pana
 Meitei martial arts
 Thang Ta
 Sarit Sarak
 Cheibi
 Meitei traditional weapons
 Meitei traditional toys
 Meitei traditional games
 Meitei royal etiquette
 Anglo Manipuri Treaty (1762)
 Manipur Levy
 Anglo Manipuri Treaty (1833)
 Agreement Regarding Compensation for the Kubo (Kabaw) Valley (1834)
 Anglo-Manipur War
 Ahom–Meitei relations
 Kuranganayani
 Meitei people in Assam
 Induprabha
 Burmese–Meitei relations
 Chakpa Makhao Ngambi
 Seven Years' Devastation (Chahi Taret Khuntakpa)
 Meitei people in Myanmar
 Meitei–Shan relations
 Takhel Ngamba
 Meitei queens of Tripura
 Meitei people in Tripura
 Meitei people in Bangladesh

 References 

Category:Meitei culture
Category:Army
Category:Military
Category:History of Manipur
Category:Culture of Assam