Schooling of Meitei Thang Ta in Manipur Past and Present
| Authors |
| Aheibam Rishikesh Singh |
| Date of Publication: December, 2024 |
| Volume: XXIII, No.- XXVI |
| Abstract |
| This research paper will discuss the Thang-Ta culture, an indigenous Martial art form of the Meiteis in Manipur which includes fighting techniques of sharp weapons, different types of Swords, shields, lance, spear etc. It is also known as Huyen Lallong. It is believed that this indigenous art form was developed from the war environment of the tiny state, Manipur in North east India since the early Christian era. From the very beginning, the traditional Meitei martial art was an integral part of an educational system that went beyond more combat training, instilling students with essential values, etiquette, skills and battle strategies. The aim of this research is to highlight the types of schooling system of how the techniques of combat are taught by the Gurus (skillful teachers) to the learners including physical fitness training, disciplines, dress codes and many more. At present, there are two schools of Thang Ta namely Ancient school of Thang Ta or Traditional School of Thang Ta and Modern School of Thang Ta. The changes and updates of these schooling systems will be discussed in a more scientific way. This study will focus more on the study of field work resources and analysis will be done in a more scientific way. The findings of this study will influence the growth of many scholars in the field in Meitei society and at the same time this will enrich the age old indigenous culture. |
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