Moirang


Moirang is a small town in the Indian state of Manipur. It is situated approximately 45 km south of the state capital Imphal. It has an area of 269 km2 with a population of 62,187 in 67 villages.
Loktak Lake, the biggest fresh water lake in the North East Indian region and Keibul Lamjao National Park are situated in this district. There are 12 Gram Panchayats in this block.

History

Khamba Thoibi

Historically, the town of Moirang is famous for the ancient temple of the deity, Lord Thangjing and the legendary love story of "Khamba Thoibi". In a village name Ngangkhaleikai, the old cloth used by Khamba and Nongban are still preserved. The epic story of "Khamba-Thoibi" begins between a beautiful princess name Thoibi daughter of King Wangon Ningthou Chingkhu Naha Telheiba.and an orphan boy name Khamba. Khamba was raised up by her own sister when both their parent died at their very young age. Khamnu used to go around the village for pounding grain and lend a hand to others household works at her young age. In return she fed her brother from the less amount of grain that others paid in gratitude of helping to their household works.

Powerful clan

In ancient times, the king of Moirang was considered as the most powerful among the seven clan kings of Manipur. Till the end of Khamba-Thoibi era the Burmese King paid the annual war reparations money to the Moirang king.

World War II and the INA

During World War II, Moirang was the headquarters of Indian National Army. Colonel Shaukat Malik of the Indian National Army hoisted the Tricolour for the second time on Indian soil on 14 April 1944, in Moirang with the help of Manipuris like Shri Mairembam Koireng Singh and others who were members of the INA. The INA Museum at Moirang displays some wartime relics and photographs. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, himself hoisted the first time Tricolour flag of Indian Independence on 30 December 1943 in Jimkhana Club Port Blair. In which time Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was commander in Chief of INA and Hon. President of Indian Government which recognized by 18 countries.

People

Mairembam Koireng Singh was the first elected Chief Minister of Manipur. He was elected as Chief Minister of Manipur thrice.

Culture

The Month long Lai Haraoba festival held between mid May to June originated from Moirang. The graceful Khamba Thoibi dance also originated here at Moirang.

Geography

Moirang is located at. It has an average elevation of 766 metres.

Tourist places

Moirang is well connected by Imphal and Churachandpur through NH:-150. Moirang-Kumbi and Moirang-Thanga are the other important district roads which connected to Moirang town.

Demographics

India census, Moirang had a population of 16,684. Males constitute 51% of the population and females 49%. Moirang has an average literacy rate of 64%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 71%, and female literacy is 55%. In Moirang, 13% of the population is under 6 years of age.

Politics

Moirang is part of Inner Manipur.