Keithel Lairembi
Keithel Lairembi, also known as Keithen Lairembi, is an important goddess in old Meitei mythology, folklore and religion of Sanamahism. Meitei people believe she protects marketplaces and the women who work there. Her male counterpart is known as Keithel Lairemba. Their presence is notable in the Ima Keithel in Imphal city, as well as in all the markets in the Imphal valley.
They are related to market, commerce, trade, stock and fortune.
The women who sell things in the market give small offerings every day to the deities to ask for blessings and a good day. These divinities are an important part of the living traditions of Khwairamband Keithel, especially in the Nupi Keithel.
Beliefs
Keithel Lairembi was believed to watch over the people and the market’s success in Meitei civilization. Seen as a kind and powerful goddess, she would show signs of big troubles or disasters for the nation by appearing as a woman dressed in white, crying before dawn. People believed the market had a deep, hidden energy that reflected the fate of the whole nation of Kangleipak.Sculptures
The stone idol of Keithel Lairembi, the goddess of the market, was made in the early 1700s.The statues of Keithel Lairembi near the peepal tree by the Nambul River were taken away, and new ones were placed inside the Ima Keithel.