Tradition and Sustenance: The Importance of Fish in Manipuri Culture

The North-Eastern states, famously known as the seven sisters, is in the Indo-Burma mega biodiversity hotspot region, are renowned for their scenic beauty and cultural diversity. One of these states is Manipur, often called 'the Jewelled Land' due to its natural splendor and rich biodiversity. The Meitei community is one amongst major indigenous tribe, who make up 53% of Manipur's population, have an inseparable connection with fish in their cultural and socio-economic livelihood. For the majority of Manipur's residents, except for those who are purely vegetarian, fish is an indispensable ingredient in daily life having a cultural remark. Fish holds significant importance from the beginning of life, through the creation and welcoming of new life, to the end of life. In every Meitei ritual, celebration, and offering, fish is an essential element. The most important forms of fish found in almost every Manipuri household are Ngari (fermented fish), Hentak (fermented paste) and smoked fish. The profound importance of fish in Meitei culture is discussed in detail in the article herewith