K Namba crowned Maram king
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, April 28 2011:
K Namba was crowned as king of Maram Khullen today.
The ancient ritual of Maram insists a king or queen fast for 40 days before he/she is crown as king or queen.
For Namba the duration was shortened to just three days.
A black cow was killed on the first day of the fast.
Namba was allowed to drink only wine prepared by his wife throughout the three days.
On the end of the third day, he had a grand feast with the people of the village who incidentally do not follow Christianity.
Namba and his wife in their king's and queen's robes were escorted today to their throne.
Gun salutes were given to the two followed by performances of Thang-Ta and traditional war dances.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Director, Manipur State Archives, Sushila expressed her happiness that the Maram community has preserved their tradition and wished peace and development for the village.
President, Maram Khullen Circle Board, L Hingba said that Maram Khullen has had 14 kings so far in its history with Dikii Kui being the first king.
56 years old K Namba is the only son of former king Karang and Apei Hinga.
He has six daughters and one son.
President, MNF Wangambi and N Indramani of Manipur State Archives who also attended the occasion urged the villagers to strive for a peaceful and developed society with a sense of unity among the hill and valley people.