ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Dragons in Manipuri mythology

Okay kiddo, let me tell you about dragons in Manipuri mythology. In Manipur, which is a state in Northeast India, people have stories about dragons that are different from the ones you see in movies or cartoons. These dragons are called 'Pakhangba' or 'Ningthouja,' and they are believed to be powerful spirits that control the weather and bring good luck.

According to the stories, Pakhangba is a dragon that has a human face and a serpent body. He lives in a deep cave, and people believe that he controls rainfall and makes sure that the crops grow well. The dragon also controls the flow of rivers and streams and keeps them from causing floods or droughts.

In Manipuri mythology, Ningthouja is another type of dragon that is associated with royalty. It is said that the dragon chooses the king or queen of Manipur and gives them the power to rule over the land. People believe that if the dragon is displeased with the king's actions, it can cause disasters like earthquakes or floods.

Interestingly, in some communities of Manipur, people still perform rituals to honor these dragons. They offer food and prayers to Pakhangba and Ningthouja to make sure that they continue to control the weather and bring good luck to the land.

So, that's the story of dragons in Manipuri mythology, my little friend. They are not scary fire-breathing creatures, but instead, they are important spirits that play a crucial role in the lives of people in Manipur.