Ritualistic Medicine: A Cultural Perspective on Traditional Healing in Manipur
| Authors |
| Heisnam Budhichandra Singh |
| Date of Publication: December, 2024 |
| Volume: XXIII, No.- XXVI |
| Abstract |
| The ritual practice known as “Thou Touba” has been a cornerstone of the traditional healthcare system of the Meetei community, deeply rooted in their cultural and spiritual beliefs. Ancient manuscripts, or Puyas, authored by Maichou (traditional scholars), attest that the Meetei have long possessed a unique system of healthcare and medicinal knowledge, shaped by their ethics and worldview. According to these texts, the Meetei believe that the world is governed by imperceptible forces categorized as Gods, Spirits, and Evil Forces. Malevolent spirits are thought to cause diseases, epidemics, and misfortunes affecting humans and other living beings. The Meetei hold that appeasing these spirits through rituals can bring blessings and prosperity, making ritual practices an essential part of their healing traditions. Traditional healers play a pivotal role in diagnosing ailments and determining the influence of these spirits. Before administering herbal treatments, healers perform ritual ceremonies aligned with the prognosis, ensuring harmony between the spiritual and physical realms. The Meetei also attribute many afflictions to cosmic energies, known as “Grahagee Dasha,” emanating from planets, satellites, and stars. To counteract these influences, healers combine ritual rites with medicinal remedies, reflecting the holistic nature of their healthcare system. This integration of rituals, therapy, and herbal medicine underscores the Meetei belief that occult powers are the root cause of human suffering. |
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