The Hidden Jewel: Legacy of Land Unseen

Laishram Malemnganba Meitei
Dear sons and daughters, come and seek
The word that whispers, the place we dream,
An essence felt but veiled, unseen—
Until its name unfolds, agleam,
A beauty woven in words, serene.

Do we know what that truly is?
Now comes the time to explore, to trace,
To roam within this hallowed space—
Where culture and heritage rise high,
A throne no rival could ever deny.

A kingdom of jewels, fierce and bold,
With sons of steel and doyennes of old,
Guarding art and honour refined,
A legacy bound, by time enshrined.

Here, grace is born of timeless ways,
Of kindness, forgiveness, in endless praise—
For centuries it proudly reigned,
Transforming its heart, led by kings unchained.

Once a bountiful realm, where abundance thrived,
A haven of riches, where needs were supplied.
No pleas for aid nor burdens to bear,
Self-sustained, it flourished in nature’s care,
A tapestry woven with resources so grand,
A legacy of plenty, nurtured by the land.

With the arrival of Hinduism, a new chapter began,
Influenced by Shantidas Gosai, who shaped its land,
A new name blossomed, rich with tales untold,
As history wove its fabric, vibrant and bold.

Where women rose like a fiery tide
Against British might, defiant with pride;
At Paona Brajabashi’s Khongjom’s plain,
Where heroes fell, and freedom gained;
The Nupi Lan—the Women’s War—
A voice of courage that echoes far.

Living as many communities, side by side,
Ching-mee in the hills, with pride they abide,
Tam-mee in the valleys, where traditions thrive,
Together they weave the spirit of the land alive.

By the lake that floats in tranquil grace,
With Nongin birds to bless this place.
In storied Moirang’s soil and sky,
Where Khamba and Thoibi’s passions lie—
A tale of love, as fierce, as pure,
As any known, or shall endure.

Shining upon Phumdi’s breast,
Where Sangai deer find silent rest;
And Shirui Lily, rare and proud,
Blooms in Ukhrul’s mists, a violet shroud.

Now, no longer hidden, this place we name,
The land of history, honour, and fame—
A legacy that time cannot erase,
Revealed at last, in this sacred space.

Once known as Sanaleipak Kangleipak,
And now, behold, the name that echoes—Manipur!