- Pangal
The Pangal, also known as the "Meitei Pangal", are a subset of the
Meiteis , the major ethnic group in the border state of Manipur, India. Their present population is estimated as 150,000, most of whom are under 20.The Pangal are mainly concentrated in and around
Imphal , the capital of Manipur. Inhabited localities include Kshetrigaon, Lilong, Khergao, Yairipok, Kairang, Mayang Imphal, Jiri, Cachar, Keirao, and Hapta.The Pangal have slightly
Aryan features. They are thought to be descendants of a group of Muslim warriors from the district of Sileet inCachar (now inAssam ) who intermarried with the local Meitei. Pangals identify themselves as Muslims but their beliefs, practices, and culture reflect the pre-Hindu religion of the Meiteis. Traditional dress for men islungis and pajamas, and for women isfanek andsalwar . Both also wear western attire.The Pangal suffer from low literacy and poor economic development. A riot involving this community occurred in May 1993. About 150 were killed and an unknown number were injured and displaced.
Allimudin Shah, a Pangal, was one of the chief ministers of Manipur.
Links Literature in Meitei/Pangal Language
* [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/seirangba_marup/ Seirangba Marup, the Yahoo Group of Manipuri Art and Literature]
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