Since ancient times, Manipur (Kangleipak kingdom) is best known for its dragon culture and dragon

worship.

In the pre-Hindu ancient Manipuri religion (Sanamahism), dragons are generally regarded as powerful
spirits or supernatural creatures. So, dragon worship was one of the most common practices in the
region.

Pakhangba is the most popular dragon in Manipur.

Even in various ancient monuments as well as sacred sites, gigantic dragon structures are installed as a
symbol of defense and power

Starting from the Dragon lion and dragon serpents to the dragon ships, in many ancient Manipuri
legends, dragons play an integral role.

Many dragons are regarded as negative forces while many as positive.

One of the most popular example of negative character is “Poubi Lāi”, the tyrant of the Loktak lake.

Besides, dragons are the major characters in ancient Manipuri mythology.

In ancient Meitei Manipuri manuscripts, including the “Pāphal Puyā”, there are more than 100
illustrations of colorful dragon arts:-

STATE EMBLEM:-
The emblem of the “Government of Manipur” is “Kanglasha”, which is a dragon.

Hiyang Hiren

Main article: Hiyang Hiren

A supernatural Hiyang Hiren

The Hiyang Hiren (Old Manipuri: Hiyang Hilen) is said to be a well furnished race boat. This is often built
in the shape of a dragon. Many legends say that it possesses spiritual powers.

Nongshaba

Main article: Nongshaba

Knagla fort, manipur, India 6.jpg

Nongshaba, the dragon lion, is also known as Kanglasha, the dragon of the Kangla, the city of Ancient
Manipur. He is a child of Atingkok, the Supreme Being. Unlike his siblings, he always remains in the form
of the mythical beast rather than that of a God (human figure).[3][1][5]

Pakhangba

Main article: Pakhangba

Pakhangba.jpg

Pakhangba is the youngest son of Leimarel Sidabi, the supreme mother earth goddess. He was given the
throne of the universe to protect and rule the world by Atingkok, his father. He could change himself into
both a serpentine dragon as well as a human. Several legends revolve around his identity as an ancient
historical figure.[6][7][8]
Poubi Lai

Main article: Poubi Lai

Paphal (Musée du Quai Branly) (4489839164).jpg

Poubi Lai is the tyrant dragon serpent of the primitive Loktak lake. It is one of the popular figures in
Meitei folklore and mythology. There are many stories about this huge dragon, who once gained its fame
through its notorious nature.[9][10]

Taoroinai

Main article: Taoroinai

Easy origami dragon for beginners- how to paint a dragon for beginners.jpg

Taoroinai (Old Manipuri: Taoloinai) is a mythical dragon serpent, who lives in the cosmic ocean. It is
known for bringing down the divine celestial egg (nonglum) down to earth.[11][12][13]