By: ANANDIBALA MANGSHATABAM, HOABIJAM VOKENDRO SINGH
The sacred complex is comprised of three analytical concepts: sacred geography, a set of sacred performances, and a corps of sacred specialists. The application of these concepts has been methodologically studied in relation to the sacred city of Gaya. The Arong Ningthou is the Umanglai, the local deity of the village of Nongpok Lourembam in Manipur. It is regarded as the supreme protector of the village. Therefore, a temple dedicated to him is present in the village, complete with amenities such as laibung, lai pukhri, and laishang, which are well-equipped. The following investigation focuses on the sacred geography of the village of Nongpok Lourembam, which is home to several important annual rituals, including Lai Haraoba and Lai Kum Chanba. It is evident that these rituals constitute the primary sacred performances that are carried out in the village. The performance of these sacred ceremonies is entrusted to a group of specialists who have been authorized to carry out these rites during the ceremonies of Lai Haraoba and Lai Kum Chanba. These ceremonies consist of Amaiba, Amaibi, Pena Khongba, and Lai Selungba. The sacred complex of Arong Ningthou in the village of Nongpok Lourembam was formed by intricate networks of sacred geography, sacred performances, and sacred specialists.
