Ngangbiton

Ngangbiton () is a character in a Meitei folktale that features Tembalaithak (also known as Temba Laithak). She is described as the daughter of Keirakpa, a minister in her community. Ngangbiton plays an important role in the story, which follows events surrounding her unwanted attention from Temba, her father’s reaction, and the difficult life that follows.Sharma, B. Jayantakumar. Fungawari Singbul (also known as Phungawari Shingbul) (in Manipuri). Sahitya Akademi.

 Background 

Ngangbiton is presented as a young woman known for her beauty. She is the daughter of Keirakpa, who holds the position of minister in the area. Her social position becomes significant because Tembalaithak believes he is too inferior to be accepted as her husband.

 Incident at the river 

In the folktale, Ngangbiton goes to the river with her friends to bathe, even though she usually does not bathe there. At the river, she is confronted by Temba, who grabs her hand and threatens to kill both her and himself. Frightened, she asks him to spare her life. Temba releases her only after she makes a promise to him.

 Aftermath of the incident 

Later, when Temba pretends to be dead inside Keirakpa’s house, Keirakpa blames Ngangbiton for the situation. He scolds her harshly and becomes angry after learning that Temba has escaped. Feeling ashamed because of her father’s reaction, Ngangbiton leaves her home and goes to Temba’s house, where she is welcomed.

Keirakpa, believing that his daughter has died, breaks his earthen cooking pots as a sign of sorrow.

 Life with Temba 

Ngangbiton and Temba live together in poverty. Their financial situation becomes worse over time. Ngangbiton remains with Temba throughout the events of the folktale, including his rise to fame through deception, fortune-telling, and assistance given to different kings.

 Role in the folktale 

Ngangbiton’s role in the story is closely linked to the actions and decisions of Tembalaithak. Her experiences reflect themes of fear, social pressure, family conflict, and the difficult position of women within the narrative. The folktale ends by stating that Ngangbiton lives peacefully with Temba for the rest of her life.

 Related pages 
 List of Meitei folktales
 Thabaton
 Khamnu
 Hayainu
 Haosi Namoinu
 Keibu Keioiba
 Tapta
 Lai Khutsangbi
 Lai Khadang Pandabi
 Yenakha Paodabi
 Pebet
 Kakyen
 Houdong
 Shamu (Meitei culture)
 Tenawa

 References 

Category:Meitei folklore
Category:Meitei mythology
Category:Children's literature
Category:Poverty
Category:Deception