Poireiton
Background and origin
In the story, Poireiton is the younger brother of Thongalen (Thongaren), who is the King of Terrors and lives in the underworld. Thongaren sends Poireiton, along with his youngest wife Leinaotabi, to explore the Earth. Their mission is to bring knowledge, skills, and civilization to the people already living there.
Journey to the surface world
Poireiton and Leinaotabi leave the underworld with a large group of followers. They bring many important things with them, including:
- Two types of edible plants (one eaten raw and the other cooked)
- Weavers, craftsmen, doctors, and singers
- Domestic animals and birds
- Tools for farming and wood-cutting
They face many obstacles while leaving the underworld. These difficulties are overcome by a bull with gold and silver-tipped horns, which is a symbol of the pain of childbirth.
Cultural significance
The journey of Poireiton is seen as the arrival of a more advanced culture. The group settles in different parts of the region, and their descendants become different ethnic groups, including:
Other tribes like Taring, Tarao, Maring, Khoibu, Lamsang, and Chakpa Tangba.
During their travels, Poireiton and Leinaotabi visit many places, some of which still have the same names today. The story also shows that people already living in those areas had funeral customs, such as burning the dead.
Loss and naming of children
One part of the story tells how Poireiton was saddened by the early death of his children. Later, he meets the chief of a tribe called Sachung, who tells him that the names of his children, nurse, and doctor were not good. The chief advises Poireiton to change them. After this, Poireiton carefully names his surviving son Tapung Simingnaba, who is later able to return from the world of the dead.
In literature
Poireiton is one of the earliest figures in Meitei prose literature. The story Poireiton Khunthok is special because it is written in prose, not in poetry like most other works of the time. It uses allegory and animal symbols to talk about life, death, and creation. It contains old and rare words not found in later writings. It uses a catechetical (question-and-answer) style in some parts.
Legacy
Poireiton is remembered as a culture-bringer, a leader, and a traveler who helped shape the early societies of Manipur and surrounding regions. His journey reflects both mythical themes and historical memory, and the story remains an important part of Meitei heritage.
