Umang Lai

Umang Lai (Meitei: /ū-mang lāi/) refers to a group of ancient Meitei deities of the traditional Meitei religion (Sanamahism) who are worshipped as the local guardians of particular areas, especially sacred groves. These deities are worshipped annually. Their sacred groves are preserved by the Meitei people since ancient times, mostly in the Northeast Indian state of Manipur. Their pleasing ceremony is always celebrated every year through a music and dance festival, known as Lai Haraoba. There are more than 365 Umang Lai shrines in Manipur state alone. They are integral parts of Meitei mythology, folklore and religion. The cults of these deities vary from community to community.