The Liangmai tribe inhabits the states of Nagaland and Manipur in Northeast India.¹ Their villages are primarily concentrated in the Peren district of Nagaland and the Tamenglong and Senapati districts of Manipur. Additionally, smaller Liangmai settlements can be found in the Dimapur, Imphal East, and Imphal West districts of Manipur. The Liangmais constitute the main inhabitants and hold a dominant presence in Tening town (Peren district, Nagaland) and Tamei town (Tamenglong district, Manipur).²
 |
| instagram.com/theindegenous |
Tribe Recognition
The Liangmai were officially recognized as a separate tribe in Manipur state by the Government of India on December 22, 2011.³ This recognition marks a significant milestone for the community, affirming their distinct cultural and historical identity.
Origin
The Liangmai are one of the tribes of Northeast India, specifically part of the Hamai group and broadly categorized under the larger Naga ethnic umbrella.⁴ Their origin is traditionally traced to the Mongolian region (not necessarily present-day Mongolia), with migration believed to have commenced around the 7th century BC, coinciding with or preceding the early construction of the Great Wall of China.⁵
While there are no written records to substantiate their ancient dispersions, movements, and long journeys from Mongolia, their history is meticulously preserved through oral traditions. It is believed that the migration occurred in different waves, spanning hundreds of years. After dispersing from Mongolia, various groups moved in diverse directions, settling in different areas for extended periods before continuing their journey. Some reached Southeast Asian coastal regions and islands, while others settled in Burma, Thailand, and India. Some groups are thought to have remained in the Chinese heartlands. However, precise historical information regarding dates, places, cultures encountered during their migration remains unrecorded.⁶
The Hamais, considered a significant wave of Naga migration, traversed numerous regions over centuries before finally reaching a place named "Makhel," a historical village in the present-day Senapati District of Manipur. Makhel is revered as one of the ancient abodes of the Nagas.⁷ The Liangmai, like other indigenous communities, possess a rich language and culture. According to Kaikhamang, "The Liangmais are the Hamais and Hamais are the Liangmais." This assertion stems from the fact that the Liangmai dialect served as the lingua franca for the Hamais during their historical settlement in Makuilongdi village, also known as the "abode" of the Hamai people.⁸
Within the historical Hamai community, the Liangmais held a leadership position, considered the heirs of the Hamai ruler. Due to this prominence, the Liangmai dialect is known as "chara lad" (meaning "God's language") among the Hamai people. Even today, there are living communities among the Hamais who uphold this traditional view by utilizing the Liangmai language in religious rituals, rites, and other sacred activities (such as songs, chanting, and poems), even if they do not fully comprehend the language's literal meaning.⁹ Tracing the precise origin of the Liangmai/Hamai remains challenging, relying solely on their robust oral tradition as the primary source for reconstructing their history, migration patterns, present settlements, socio-political structures, economy, religious culture, and worldview.
Pre-Makhel Migration
The history of the Liangmais before their arrival in Makhel is a blend of myths, pre-history, stories, and other oral traditions. Beyond the Mongolian origin, researchers like Nampibou Marinmai, drawing from folktales, trace the Liangmai's origin to a mountain called Thonbutlong, which is encircled eight times by a river named Alou-duiriang-tukhuang. Some scholars also suggest the Liangmais were once from a place known as "Sinluong," though it's unproven if this refers to a specific location in China. Notably, the Hmar tribe also believes they originated from "Sinlung," which might correspond to a present-day Chinese province.¹⁰
During their migration, it is said that the Liangmai crossed a large body of "white water" or a river called duika. This might refer to the Hwang-Ho (Yellow River) or Yangtze (Yang-Sikiang) rivers in China, or possibly the Chindwin or Irrawaddy rivers in Myanmar, or even the Brahmaputra in India.¹¹ In their exodus, they are also believed to have settled in Yunnan province of China, possibly in the Shangri-La area. Here, the Liangmai and other Naga communities likely had close interactions with groups such as the Tibetans, Karens, Kachins, and Chins. Shangri-La, located in Yunnan Province, was historically dominated by Tibetans in the early and medieval periods and is remembered as a significant resting place for many migrating communities. This is supported by the linguistic affiliations of groups who settled in Shangri-La during their journeys, as they typically speak languages classified under the Tibeto-Burman linguistic group.¹²
Their folktales also recount their arrival near a duiliu (sea/ocean). One account presumes that the Liangmai once reached the Bay of Bengal or the Indian Ocean. This is supported by the traditional ornaments they use, such as embellishments made of conchs, shells, beads, and other sea-based materials. Furthermore, their familiarity with the story of Marangwangbou (a version similar to the epic of Rama, where he and his friends journeyed to Lanka to fight against Abonbou, analogous to Ravana) further suggests their historical proximity to the seas. Regardless of the exact route, they continued their sojourn from one place to another, eventually reaching Makhel village, a pivotal historical landmark located in the present-day Senapati district of Manipur.¹³
At Makhel
Makhel village holds significant historical importance as a gathering point for many Naga tribes. Numerous Naga groups, migrating from different directions, converged at Makhel in present-day Senapati District of Manipur. Among these groups was the Tenyimia, which included the Liangmais/Hamais. They resided at Makhel for an extended period. However, due to various factors such as overpopulation, disunity, and scarcity of resources, the different tribes eventually dispersed in various directions. According to Sujata Miri, overpopulation was a key reason for their dispersion.¹⁴
Subsequently, the Liangmais/Hamais left Makhel and reached a place called Ramting Kaben (literally "sky midway"). This place is described as a cave or space where stars could be seen even during daylight hours, offering a safe haven from enemies. However, it was unsuitable for permanent human settlement due to a "stifling" climate. Therefore, they moved out of Ramting Kaben and journeyed to Chawang Phungning (king's plot), also known as Gwangphuning (Old village). After residing there for some years, they moved westward, finally arriving at Makuilongdi.¹⁵
Makuilongdi: The Abode of the Hamais
Makuilongdi village is renowned as the Abode of the Hamais. It was a vast settlement, reportedly covering extensive hill tracts that would take a strong person three days and three nights to traverse from North to South and East to West. Over time, the village grew significantly, reportedly housing 7,777 households. During this period, Nguibou served as the king of the entire land, with his three sons destined to succeed him. His son Kadingbou was appointed as his successor to rule over this expansive territory. However, the settlement at Makuilongdi was not permanent due to several contributing factors, primarily overpopulation.¹⁶
It was also noted that people often took 10-30 days to return to the village after visiting their fields, indicating the immense size of their agricultural lands. Furthermore, a famine struck Makuilongdi, compelling people to move out in search of new lands. These interconnected factors led to the significant dispersion of the Hamais from Makuilongdi. Kadingbou and his followers remained in Makuilongdi and its surrounding areas, becoming known as the Liangmai (the Northern settlers). His stepbrother, Magangtubou, and his followers migrated to Ramzengning (a valley) and became the Zeme tribe. His younger brother, Renbangbou, and his followers proceeded southward to Kamarongbojam (an empty land), eventually being known as the Rongmei tribe. Another group ventured to the southeastern parts and came to be known as the Puimei tribe.¹⁷ This narrative from Makuilongdi is crucial as it explains the genealogical and geographical separation of the Zeliangrong group of tribes.
Dialect
The Liangmai Naga communicate among themselves using Lianglad, which literally means "the language of the Liangmais."¹⁸ According to Zeliangrong legend, Lianglad is considered the 'language of the gods' or "charalad," composed of two words: "chara" (god) and "lad" (language). Before the advent of Christianity, the people practiced paganism, believing that natural elements like mountains, caves, rivers, and trees were governed by gods, and it was these gods who spoke Lianglad. Notably, traditional practitioners among the Rongmei tribe still use Lianglad (which they call "rah lad," with "rah" meaning god) during rituals, even if some no longer fully understand the language.¹⁹
Lianglad spoken in Nagaland and Manipur exhibits regional variations in accent. Even within these states, accents differ. For example, in Manipur, the northern speakers generally have a gentler accent than those from the southern regions.²⁰
In 2002, Lianglad was initially listed as one of the endangered dialects. However, with the increasing Liangmai population, the number of its speakers is growing, making it one of the more widely spoken Naga dialects today. Researchers and scholars have begun audio recording the dialect as part of their theses and projects, contributing significantly to its long-term preservation. The State Government of Manipur officially approved the recognition of "Lianglad" on May 23, 2013. As a result, Lianglad is now an officially recognized language and will be used as a medium of instruction in schools, a vital step for its revitalization and formal education.²¹
Etymology
The name Liangmai is derived from two words: "LIANG" and "MAI." "MAI" translates to "people." Therefore, Liangmai means "the people of LIANG." While different interpretations exist for the word "LIANG," the most widely accepted meaning today is "Support" or "grouped as one." Thus, "Liangmai" collectively refers to **"the people who have grouped themselves in support of each other to live together as one community or tribe."**²²
Dress
Attire constitutes a significant part of the Liangmai's cultural heritage, with most traditional garments being hand-woven. Some popular clothes include "ngumthua phai," a commonly worn shawl. Other traditional attires include Maranpan, a shawl for both men and women; Henglan nina, a girdle worn by women around the waist; and Tareh phai, a shawl specifically for men. The Liangmai community possesses distinct attires for various occasions, with each piece of cloth carrying a specific cultural connotation. For instance, certain attires are reserved exclusively for married women or for maidens, while others are designated for specific events such as funerals, weddings, or celebrations.²³
Food
The staple food of the Liangmais primarily consists of rice, fresh meat, and various green vegetables. Popular traditional food items include jiangdui, a taste enhancer extracted from mustard leaf juice; tasun, potted bamboo shoot; and tasang, processed or fermented soybean. These traditional ingredients are integral to their culinary identity and daily meals.²⁴
Livelihood
Today, the Liangmais engage in a variety of occupations and professions. Historically and currently, the majority of Liangmai men and women are agriculturalists, with jhum (shifting cultivation) being their most widely practiced method of farming. Among the educated segment of the population, individuals pursue careers as government servants, social workers, and entrepreneurs. Animal husbandry or livestock rearing also forms a significant component of their livelihood, supplementing their agricultural activities.²⁵
Festivals
Chaga-Ngee
Chaga-Ngee is the largest and most significant festival of the Liangmai community, celebrated in the month of October. Currently, this festival, which vividly showcases Liangmai's rich culture and traditions, is observed annually on October 30th. The main venues for Chaga-Ngee are typically Tamei and Dimapur towns. According to historical accounts, Chaga-Ngee originated as a celebration for victorious wars, honoring brave warriors. It also serves as a festival of purification/sanctification and re-dedication for future endeavors. In the contemporary context, the primary objective of organizing this event is to preserve and promote the rich culture and traditions of the Liangmai people. On this day, both old and young Liangmais gather, adorned in their vibrant traditional attires, to sing folk songs, perform traditional dances, and participate in traditional games and sports.²⁶
Other Major Festivals
As the majority of the Liangmai Naga community identifies as Christian, their other main festivals and celebrations include Christmas, Easter, New Year, and Thanksgiving. These religious celebrations are invariably accompanied by singing, dancing, communal feasts, and merrymaking, reflecting the joyous spirit of their faith and community bonds. Despite being a relatively small tribe, the Liangmai are known for their strong unity and cohesion.²⁷
Notes
Liangmai Community Website,
, accessed July 20, 2025. Ibid.
"Tribe Recognition," The Sangai Express, December 23, 2011. (Note: A more specific article or official notification would be ideal for Turabian style).
Liangmai Community Website,
, accessed July 20, 2025. Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
L. Hranglien Songate, Hmar Chanchin (Aizawl: Khualbu Printing Press, n.d.).
Liangmai Community Website,
, accessed July 20, 2025. Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
"Lianglad Language Recognition," The Sangai Express, May 24, 2013. (Note: A more specific article or official notification would be ideal for Turabian style).
Liangmai Community Website,
, accessed July 20, 2025. Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
