Paphal

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A **Paphal**, also spelled as *Pafal* (), or *Paphan* or *Pafan* (), is a Meitei traditional symbolic representation, resembling pythons, varying in shape and color. These illustrations are closely linked to Meitei cosmology, mythology, clan identity, and ritual practices of traditional Meitei religion (Sanamahism) of Manipur.
Notably, the *Paphal Lambuba* (), a traditional illustrated manuscript, contains depictions of *364 Paphals*.

The Paphal cult holds a significant place in the religious and cultural framework of the Meitei community. Its influence is evident across various aspects of Meitei life, including visual arts, architecture, pottery, martial practices, and performing arts. The presence of Paphal imagery and symbolism in these domains reflects the integration of the cult into the collective consciousness and traditional expressions of the community.

## Symbolism and beliefs 
Paphals are believed to possess supernatural powers. They frequently incorporate mystic symbols, Meitei alphabets, and sacred hymns within and around the figure. In the past, Paphal drawings were placed above the main entrance of homes to ward off evil spirits.

## Gallery 

Different Paphal designs of (2) Tillikok Sitapa Pakhangba - Immortal Essence, (3) General Coiling Form, (4) Pallandabi - Drawing used in ritual - Classical cultural heritage of Ancient Kangleipak civilisation state.jpg
Ibudhou Pakhangba Paphal.jpg
Kangla Thon 7 Thollangmei.jpg
Classical Meitei illuminated manuscript painting — depicting a “Paphal” of Ningthouja winged dragon — from the “Pakhangba Lambuba”, an Ancient Meetei language text (engraved in traditional Meetei Mayek writing system).jpg
Classical Meitei illuminated manuscript painting — depicting a “Paphal” of Ningthouja Pakhangba dragon — from the “Pakhangba Lambuba”, an Ancient Meetei language text (engraved in traditional Meetei Mayek writing system).jpg
Classical Meitei illuminated manuscript painting — depicting a “Paphal” of Luwang dragon — from the “Pakhangba Lambuba”, an Ancient Meetei language text (engraved in traditional Meetei Mayek writing system).jpg
Classical Meitei illuminated manuscript painting — depicting a “Paphal” of Khaba Nganpa Pakhangba dragon — from the “Pakhangba Lambuba”, an Ancient Meetei language text (engraved in traditional Meetei Mayek writing system).jpg
Classical Meitei illuminated manuscript painting — depicting a “Paphal” of Khaba serpentine dragon — from the “Pakhangba Lambuba”, an Ancient Meetei language text (engraved in traditional Meetei Mayek writing system).jpg
Classical Meitei illuminated manuscript painting — depicting a “Paphal” of Khuman serpentine dragon — from the “Pakhangba Lambuba”, an Ancient Meetei language text (engraved in traditional Meetei Mayek writing system).jpg
Classical Meitei illuminated manuscript painting — depicting a “Paphal” of 4 limbed Khaba dragon — from the “Pakhangba Lambuba”, an Ancient Meetei language text (engraved in traditional Meetei Mayek writing system).jpg

## Related pages 
* Taoroinai
* Poubi Lai
* Pakhangba
* Meitei royal etiquette
* Meitei deities

## Bibliography 
* Mutua Bahadur, Manuscript Paintings of Manipur, published by M. Sanahanbi Devi, 2nd Edition, 1978
* Mutua Bahadur, Subika Laisaba, published by Mutua Museum, 1991
* P. Gunindra Singh, Manipuri Numismatics, published by Mutua Museum, 1983.
* Gita Narayanan, The Language of Symbols, The Crafts Council of India, Madras
* L. Ibungohal Singh & N. Khelchandra Singh, Cheitharol Kumbaba, published by Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, 1st Edn. 1967
* N. Indramani Singh, Seminar Paper, The old manuscripts and Its indigenous methods of preservation and conservation in Manipur, MRC & Manipur State Archives, January 2005.
* Mutua Bahadur, Seminar Paper, Different indigenous materials used for writing the old manuscript and their conservation technique, MRC and Manipur State Archives, January 2005.
## References