Ritual Performance of Amaibi as an act of Cultural Expression: A Study of Lai Haraoba
International Journal of Multidisciplinary Comprehensive Research January 1, 2025 Vandana Wahengbam
Magical flight and medium possession are central experiences in Amaibis (shamanism). During Umang Lai Haraoba rituals, spirits take human form to interact with the world. Amaibis use traditional songs and dances to enact creation tales, creating a performance reality that is both inside and outside time. The paper explores these experiences through oral performances and ritual shamanic dance, focusing on body transformation during possession, where Amaibis lose and reconnect with aspects of their identity. The Laipung (temple) serves as a site for cultural education and artistic expression, transmitting traditions across generations.