Phouoibi Chanou Tangba is an annual ritual in Phayeng, Manipur, which happens in the month of Poinu (Nov – Dec). It involves showing gratitude and seeking blessings from Phouoibi, (Rice Goddess) and Koubru deity after the harvest of paddy in winter season.
Traditionally, a few days prior to the Phouoibi Chanou Tangba ritual, the people of Phayeng ascend Koubru Mountain to gather water in bamboo containers for offering a feast to Phouoibi Ima (Rice Goddess) and the Koubru deity.
But this year, due to the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur, the water is being collected from Phayeng instead of Koubru Mountain. It is collected from three different sacred streams - Langdeirok, Sudongrok and Orirok to be symbolically offered at the "Phayeng Ibudhou Koubru shrine". The ritual is performed in 5th Jan 2024 resulting to the conflict.
The community seeks blessings and offer a feast to Phouoibi (Rice Goddess) and Koubru praying for the prosperity, health, and wealth of the community.
