Senu (Thoibi's maid)

Senu (), also spelled as Shenu, originally Sennu or Shennu (), was an achanbi (favorite maid) and a close friend of Princess Thoibi of the ancient Moirang kingdom. She was loyal to Thoibi and supported her whenever possible. She was an important character in the Khamba Thoibi classical epic of Moirang Kangleirol genre of Meitei mythology and folklore.

 Name 
The name Senu (), also spelled Shenu, is derived from Sennu or Shennu () in the Meitei language. It comes from Sen/Shen (), meaning to look after or to take care, combined with Nu (), a feminine suffix.

 Role and character 

Senu knew the private wishes and feelings of Princess Thoibi. She often acted on Thoibi’s signals and helped her in secret matters. At times, Senu distracted other people when Thoibi wanted privacy.

 Relationship with Princess Thoibi 

Senu had a trusted relationship with Princess Thoibi. She worked for Thoibi at all times and helped her meet Khuman Khamba, who later became Thoibi’s husband.

 Notable events 

During the first meeting between Thoibi and Khuman Khamba at the verandah of Thoibi’s father’s house, Senu welcomed Khamba after receiving a secret signal from Thoibi.

Senu accompanied Thoibi during the traditional indoor game of playing kang. In this game, Thoibi was able to meet Khuman Khamba at the play station.

Senu also went with Thoibi to the women-only fishing event called Een Chingba () at Loktak Lake. When Khuman Khamba arrived there suddenly, Senu received a signal from Thoibi and distracted the other women. This left Thoibi alone with Khuman Khamba in the middle of the lake.

 Separation and reunion with Thoibi 

Senu could not accompany Princess Thoibi when Thoibi was exiled to the Kabaw (Kabo) region, a tributary region of the Moirang kingdom. The exile was ordered by Thoibi’s father, Crown Prince Chingkhu Akhuba. Senu remained in Moirang during this time. They reunited after Princess Thoibi returned from exile.

 Related pages 
 References 

Category:Meitei mythology
Category:Meitei folklore
Category:History of Manipur
Category:Women