Imphal history

The city of Imphal, the capital of the state of Manipur in eastern India, possesses an ancient and rich history that is inextricably linked to the Kingdom of Manipur, also known as Kangleipak. The exact date of the city's founding is lost in the centuries, but its name, derived from the local word "Yumphal" (meaning "gathering of houses"), indicates its formation as a central settlement in the region. For centuries, Imphal has been the political, cultural, and spiritual heart of the kingdom.

Imphal's rise as a significant centre was driven by several key factors. Firstly, its geographical location in the centre of the fertile Imphal Valley, surrounded by hills, provided natural protection and fostered agricultural development. Secondly, the city was a centre of political power, serving as the residence of the rulers of the Meitei dynasty. The symbol of this power was the Kangla Fort, built in the 17th century on the riverbank and serving as a palace for the rulers. Thirdly, Imphal played a vital role in regional trade, situated at the crossroads of routes connecting the Indian subcontinent with Southeast Asia.

Since ancient times, Imphal has been a centre of distinctive culture. It is this region that is considered the birthplace of the modern game of polo, known here as "Sagol Kangjei". The city is also the centre of the famous school of classical Indian dance, Manipuri, which is distinguished by its grace and lyricism. The economy of early Imphal was built on agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, as well as flourishing crafts. The city was renowned for hand weaving, silk fabric production, and bronze and brass items.

The history of Imphal is a chronicle of an ancient kingdom, colonial clashes, and key moments in world history. Below are the main milestones in the city's development.

Key Events in the History of Imphal

• 17th Century — King Khagemba erects the Kangla Fort, which becomes the political and religious centre of the Kingdom of Manipur.
• 1714 — The reign of a dynasty that adopted Hinduism begins, leading to cultural changes in the region.
• 1826 — After the First Anglo-Burmese War, Manipur becomes a British protectorate, and Imphal is established as the capital under British influence.
• 1891 — The Anglo-Manipur War takes place, resulting in the British establishing full control over the princely state.
• March–July 1944 — The Battle of Imphal takes place, one of the decisive battles of the Second World War in the Asian theatre of operations.
• 1947 — After India gains independence, Manipur briefly becomes an independent kingdom with its own constitution.
• 1949 — The Princely State of Manipur officially merges with the Indian Union.
• 1972 — Imphal becomes the full-fledged capital of the newly formed state of Manipur.
• 2003 — The Indian Army hands over the historic Kangla Fort to the state government, opening it to the public.

The development of Imphal is the story of an ancient kingdom's capital transforming into a modern administrative and cultural centre. Key transformations in the economy, urban planning, and culture have shaped the appearance of the city today.

Major Milestones in Imphal's Development:

• Foundation of Kangla Fort (17th Century): The construction of this fortress-palace defined the urban structure of Imphal for centuries to come. The fort became not only the military but also the political and spiritual heart of the Kingdom of Manipur, around which the city grew.
• Establishment of Ima Keithel Market (since the 16th Century): The unique "Mothers' Market", managed entirely by women, became the economic core of the city. Originating due to the historical labour conscription of men, the market ensured economic independence for women and turned into a vital centre of social and commercial life.
• Battle of Imphal (1944): This battle was one of the turning points of World War II in the Asian theatre. It brought global attention to the city and left behind a significant legacy, including war memorials that are important historical sites today.
• Attaining State Capital Status (1972): After Manipur merged with India, Imphal was officially declared the capital of the new state. This strengthened its administrative importance and boosted the development of infrastructure, education, and government institutions.
• Birthplace of Modern Polo: Imphal and the Manipur region are considered the place where the game of polo originated, known here as "Sagol Kangjei". This fact highlights the city's unique cultural contribution to world sports history.
• Centre of Crafts and Weaving: For centuries, the city has been famous for its craft traditions, especially hand weaving. The production of silk fabrics, clothing, and other handmade items has always been and remains an important part of the local economy, shaping the region's cultural identity.

The architecture of Imphal represents a multi-layered canvas intertwining traditional motifs of the Meitei people, Hindu influences, and functional colonial style. The urban core of the city historically formed around iconic landmarks reflecting its political and cultural development.

Traditional and Pre-Colonial Architecture. The central point of urban planning for centuries was the Kangla Fort, erected in the 17th century. This ancient fortress and royal palace, located on the riverbank, served as the political and spiritual heart of the Kingdom of Manipur. The traditional architecture of the region, mainly represented by wooden and bamboo structures, was adapted to local climatic conditions. In the 17th century, following contacts with Chinese captives, brick began to be used in construction, which can be seen in elements of the Kangla Fort. The urban structure developed organically around this central complex.

British Colonial Period. With the establishment of the British protectorate in the 19th century, a colonial style appeared in the architecture of Imphal. Unlike the major cities of British India, here it bore a more utilitarian character. Primarily functional administrative buildings, military barracks, and bungalows for officials were built. These structures were characterized by simple forms, the use of brick, spacious verandas, and high roofs designed for protection against monsoon rains. A striking example of the planning of that period is the Imphal War Cemetery, distinguished by its strict and orderly design.

Modern Era. After India gained independence and Imphal became the state capital in 1972, active construction of modern buildings began in the city. Today's cityscape is an eclectic combination of ancient ruins, such as the Kangla Fort, colonial structures, and modern concrete and glass constructions. This blend reflects the journey of Imphal from an ancient royal residence to a dynamically developing administrative centre.

The city of Imphal and the state of Manipur have gifted India and the world many talented and influential individuals. Below are some of the most prominent figures whose lives and work are inextricably linked with this region.

Prominent Personalities of Imphal

• Mary Kom (Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom) — Athlete (Boxing). Nicknamed "Magnificent Mary", she is a six-time World Amateur Boxing Champion and a bronze medalist at the 2012 Olympic Games. Although she was not born in Imphal itself, it was in the state capital, at the Sports Academy, that she began her path to world recognition. In honour of her achievements, a road in Imphal was named MC Mary Kom Road.
• Irom Chanu Sharmila — Human rights activist and poet. Known as the "Iron Lady of Manipur", she conducted a 16-year hunger strike (from 2000 to 2016) demanding the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act. Her non-violent protest, which began in Imphal, drew international attention to the human rights situation in the region and made her a symbol of resilience and peaceful resistance.
• Ratan Thiyam — Theatre director and playwright. One of the leading figures in contemporary Indian theatre, he founded the famous Chorus Repertory Theatre company in Imphal in 1976. His productions, combining the traditional art of Manipur with modern theatrical techniques, have received global acclaim and numerous awards, including the Padma Shri.
• King Khagemba — Monarch (17th Century). A historical ruler of the Kingdom of Manipur who built the Kangla Fort in the 17th century, which became the political, military, and religious centre of Imphal for many centuries. His reign was marked by the strengthening of the state and the cultural development of the region.
• Dingko Singh — Athlete (Boxing). A boxer who won a gold medal at the 1998 Asian Games in Bangkok. His victory was a huge inspiration for the youth of Manipur and served as a catalyst for the development of boxing in the region, inspiring, in particular, the young Mary Kom.