Aheibam

Aheibam (Old Manipuri: Aheipam) is a Meitei family. It is native to Ancient Kangleipak (Antique Manipur). People of this family mainly live in Manipur, India.&#…

Aheibam
Aheibam
Origin
Language(s)Meitei language (Manipuri language)
Word/NameAncient Kangleipak (Antique Manipur)
Place of originManipur, North East India
Other names
Alternative spellingAheipam
Short form(s)Aheiba
Related pagesOinam family

Aheibam (Old Manipuri: Aheipam) is a Meitei family. It is native to Ancient Kangleipak (Antique Manipur). People of this family mainly live in Manipur, India.[1][2][3][4]

History

According to the Loiyumpa Silyel Constitution, people of this family often had Maiba priesthood (of traditional Meitei religion). They were responsible for making pukhamnati, a special type of plate with decorative rim.[5][6][7]

Role in Umang Lai Haraoba

The Aheibam clan has played an important role in the Umang Lai Haraoba festival for a very long time. Members of this clan make many special materials and idols used in the celebration, such as komai, khudeisen, kaosen, and sarik. These items are still made only by the Aheibam clan today.[8]

Etymology

It is believed that the surname "Aheibam" was given to people who worked as metal and silver forgers during the time of King Meidingu Loiyumba. The places where these forgers lived are called Aheibam Leikai.[8]

Craft and traditions

The Aheibam clan is known for its skill in forging silver and metal wares. This craft has been passed down through generations and continues to be an important tradition. The clan supplies many items needed for religious and cultural events, especially the Umang Lai Haraoba festival.[8]

Forging idols, especially komai, is considered a sacred task and is done with great care by the artisans of the clan.[8]

Products and work

Members of the Aheibam clan make various items including idols, utensils, incense holders, bells, statues, ornaments, and souvenirs. Prices of these items vary depending on their size and type. For example, small idols can cost a few thousand rupees, while life-size idols can cost several lakhs.[8]

The clan’s artisans usually work in small teams but hire extra help for large projects. Forging a single idol can take around ten days.[8]

Notable people

One well-known artisan from the clan is Aheibam Gopeshwar. He works at the Aheibam Art and Crafts Centre in Heirangoi-thong Aheibam Leirak and has been practicing the craft for many years. Gopeshwar has received awards for his work and has made idols and items that are used in important places and events. His work is also popular among foreign buyers.[8]

Legacy

The Aheibam clan has a long history connected to metal forging and craftsmanship. Their work is closely tied to cultural and religious traditions like the Umang Lai Haraoba festival. The clan continues to keep their traditional skills alive and remains an important part of their community.[8]

References

  1. "Surname Aheibam Info (Meaning, origin, mother-tongue, religion)". Archived from the original on 2021-05-20. Retrieved 2021-05-20.
  2. "Aheibam surname". Archived from the original on 2021-05-20. Retrieved 2021-05-20.
  3. "Origin of Aheibam surname". Archived from the original on 2021-05-20. Retrieved 2021-05-20.
  4. "Origin of Aheibam surname". Archived from the original on 2021-05-20. Retrieved 2021-05-20.
  5. Manipur: Treaties & Documents. India: Mittal Publications, 1993. p. 7–11
  6. Manikchand Singh, konsam (2012). Loiyumpa Silyel The Ancient Constitution Of Manipur.
  7. "Historical evidence | Meeyamgi Ningtam Lanmee". 2022-02-25. Retrieved 2025-05-23.
  8. 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 8.6 8.7 "Aheibam clan cherishes age-old profession". www.thesangaiexpress.com. Retrieved 2025-10-16.

Other websites

Content Disclaimer

Informasi ini disarikan dari Wikipedia dan disajikan kembali untuk tujuan edukasi. Konten tersedia di bawah lisensi CC BY-SA 3.0. Kami tidak bertanggung jawab atas ketidakakuratan data yang bersumber dari kontribusi publik tersebut.

  1. The information displayed on this website is sourced in part or in whole from Wikipedia and has been adapted for the purpose of restating it. We strive to provide accurate and relevant information, however:
  2. There is no guarantee of absolute accuracy. Wikipedia is an open, collaborative project that can be edited by anyone, so information is subject to change.
  3. It is not intended to constitute professional advice. The content displayed is for informational and educational purposes only. For important decisions (e.g., medical, legal, or financial), please consult a professional.
  4. Content copyright. Wikipedia is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License (CC BY-SA). This means that content may be reused with appropriate attribution and shared under a similar license.
  5. Responsible use. Any risk arising from the use of information from this website is entirely the responsibility of the user.