Cultural Survival and Transformation: The Maibis of Manipur in a Changing World

Abstract

The Maibis are female priestesses of the traditional Meetei religion known as Sanamahism. They occupy and continue to play a crucial role in the social, cultural and religious life of the Meeteis in Manipur. They are the ritual specialists, traditional healers, divine mediators, custodians of myths, dances, lore, and oral traditions. However, with the forces of modernisation, globalisation, and religious transformation, the Maibi tradition has undergone several changes at present. Drawing from traditional manuscripts, scholarly works, and articles, this paper examines the traditional roles of Maibis in a historical and cultural context. It also explores how the Maibis continue to negotiate, adapt, and maintain their traditional roles amidst shifting social values, religious pluralism, and state policies.