Hungpung Hamleikhong: A testament to Tangkhul heritage and craftsmanship

Waari Singbul Network
UKHRUL, Oct 4: Tucked away in the scenic hills of Manipur, the village of Hungpung (also known as Hundung) is not just a settlement but a cradle of Tangkhul Naga history and culture. Hungpung Hamleikhong, a site of archaeological and historical significance, stands as a testament to the tribe’s rich heritage, tracing its roots back to the Tibeto-Mongoloid lineage.
The Tangkhuls, known ancestrally as the Hao, are believed to have migrated from Taungdut near the Chindwin River in present-day Myanmar before finally settling in Hungpung in the early 14th to 15th century.
According to historical accounts, including those by TC Hodson, a prominent British anthropologist, Hungpung served as the central point of dispersion for the Tangkhul Nagas.
The tribe’s journey began from Makhel, a village in Senapati district, Manipur, before branching out to various parts of the State.
During the migration, the tribe, led by their eldest, or chief, established settlements based on the decisions of their leaders. The Tangkhul chiefs wielded immense influence over their territories, determining where each sub-group would settle, and exercising authority over the local administration and customs.
One of the most captivating aspects of Hungpung’s cultural heritage is its unique tradition of pottery-making, a craft practised by only a few clans of the Tangkhul Nagas. Unlike the conventional wheel-based pottery of other tribes, Tangkhul pottery is entirely handcrafted.
The village’s name, "Hamleikhong," is derived from the rock mortars or "hamleikhong" used in the pottery-making process, particularly in the Hungpung and Longpi areas.
The potters of Hungpung were known for their skill in using Marailung black rocks, which were crushed, mixed with clay, and then kneaded to form robust earthen vessels. This traditional method of creating pots without the aid of a wheel is still practised today, with Longpi village emerging as the sole preserver of this ancient craft.
The significance of Hungpung Hamleikhong goes beyond its pottery. It encapsulates a rich tapestry of Tangkhul social structure, economic activities, and the community’s innovative spirit. The region’s blacksmiths and craftsmen were adept at producing various tools and household items, showcasing the tribe’s ingenuity in adapting to the local environment and resources.