Uchek Langmeidong

"Uchek Langmeidong" (Lua error in Module:Unicode_data at line 468: attempt to index field 'scripts' (a boolean value).), also known as "Chekla Langmeitong" (Lua error in Module:Unicode_data at line 468: attempt to index field 'scripts' (a boolean value).), is a mythical creature of the Meitei mythology and folklore of Ancient Manipur (Antique Kangleipak).^[1]^[2] She was formerly "Hayainu" (Nongdam Atombi), a poor girl,^[3] ill treated by her step mother, later, turned herself into a "Langmeitong" bird (hornbill).^[1]^[2]^[4]^[5]^[6]

Edition

In 2011, the folktale of "Uchek Langmeidong" was produced in the form of a comic book, with the name, "Chekla Langmeitong". Interestingly, it came out to be the first comic book in Meetei script.^[7]^[8]

In popular culture

The folk story was reproduced into a play, "Uchek Langmeidong (The Chorus of the Birds)", by Ratan Thiyam, a legendary drama director of Manipur.^[9]^[10]^[11]^[12] With the production of the play, the Chorus Repertory received recognition from the critics, presented at the 1979 Shri Ram Centre National Drama Festival.^[13]

In 2008, "Uchek Langmeidong", an animation feature film, was produced, based on the folktale.^[14]^[15]

In 2016, the folk legend was once more recreated into its theatrical form, performed by the child actors.^[16]