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Irengba

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Irengba
King of Ancient Manipur
Reign984 CE – 1074 CE (2381 MF – 2471 MF)
PredecessorYanglonu Keiphaba
SuccessorLoiyumba
Died1074 CE (2471 MF)
HouseNingthouja dynasty (Mangang dynasty)
FatherYanglonu Keiphaba
Mother[Unknown]
ReligionMeiteism (Sanamahism)
OccupationMonarch of Kangleipak (Ancient Manipur)

Meidingu Irengba (Old Manipuri: ꯏꯔꯦꯡꯄ, romanized: Irengpa), also known as Kainou Irengba was a monarch of the Ningthouja dynasty who ruled the kingdom of Kangleipak (present-day Manipur) from from 984 CE to 1074 CE.[1] He was the father and predecessor of Meidingu Loiyumba, under whom significant constitutional reforms took place.[2]

Reign and Governance

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Although detailed records of Kainou Irengba's reign are limited, he is noted for maintaining the stability and continuity of the Ningthouja dynasty’s rule in Manipur during the late 10th and early 11th centuries CE. His reign is generally seen as the last phase of the Ancient Manipur era before the beginning of Medieval Manipur under his son’s rule.[3]

Cultural Contributions

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Kainou Irengba is traditionally credited with originating the Heikru Hidongba festival, a significant cultural and religious event celebrated annually by the Meitei people. The festival involves a sacred boat race and is held to ensure prosperity and harmony.[4]

Legacy

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Kainou Irengba’s reign is often regarded as a preparatory phase for the administrative and constitutional developments that would flourish under his son, Meidingu Loiyumba. His efforts ensured the continuity of dynastic rule and helped preserve cultural traditions that remain important in Manipur today.

References

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  1. ^ Parratt, Saroj Nalini (2005). The Court Chronicle of the Kings of Manipur: 33-1763 CE. Routledge. ISBN 978-0-415-34430-2.
  2. ^ Manikchand Singh, konsam (2012). Loiyumpa Silyel The Ancient Constitution Of Manipur.
  3. ^ "Rulers of Kangla and Ethnic Tribes of Manipur Part 4". Retrieved 20 May 2025.
  4. ^ "The tradition of Heikru Hidongba dates back to the reign of Maharaj Irengba". Facebook. Retrieved 20 May 2025.

See also

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