Nongyai (ancient tribe)

The Nongyais () were an ancient and numerous prominent tribe in Ancient Kangleipak (early Manipur). Gradually, they became connected with the Khuman clan (), and the term Khuman-Nongyai () started to represent their merged identity. Historically, the Khumans were also known as Adon () or Nongyai (), showing this deep-rooted connection.

 History 
The Nongyais were related to the Nongbal (Nongpan) tribes. While their identity eventually merged with the Khumans, the Nongyais kept their historical recognition in Meitei tradition, mainly in the context of ancient tribal formations and early regional alliances. It is believed that Nongyai Thingkonhanba, the father-in-law of Meitei king Irengba is the first chief of the merged Khuman-Nongyai tribe.

 Migration and early settlement 
The Nongyais were one of the first groups to settle in Ancient Kangleipak. They originally settled in the foothills and hillocks surrounding Mount Koubru, which are connected with early sacred geography and ancestral settlements. They established a network of early communities in the northern regions by living side by side with other early tribes like the Nongpans and Wangams. After that, the Nongyais migrated eastward to the area near Yaingangpokpi on the valley's eastern edge. Finally, they moved south and joined the Khumans to become the combined group known historically as the Khuman-Nongyai.

 Conflict with the Meiteis 
During the reign of Meitei King Ayangba, an important event occurred that brought the Khuman-Nongyai into direct confrontation with the Meitei kingdom. While the Meitei king was out hunting, a wild beast fled as far as the Moicha hills, a region considered part of Khuman-Nongyai territory. The intrusion was taken as an insult by the Khuman-Nongyai people, who saw it as a breach of their land. In response, the entire Khuman group declared war on the Meiteis.

Even with the bold stand of the Khuman-Nongyai, the Meiteis emerged victorious in the conflict. Several notable Khuman warriors were captured during the encounter, namely; Thingaruk Kokchaopa, Thingkaruk Ngangsapa, Thingaruk Nungnang, and Aahui Kampong the Brave.

 Related pages 

 Meitei confederacy
 Ancestors of Yek Salai
 Khuman
 Meitei people
 Ningthouja dynasty

 References 

Category:Meitei people
Category:History of Manipur
Category:Ancient people
Category:Khuman kingdom
Category:Groups of Meitei ethnicity