Lairen —Serpentine dragon in the ancient Meitei mythology (old Manipuri mythology) and folklore

A Lairen or Lairel is a mythical creature, generally depicted as a serpentine dragon, with two horns, sharp jaws, scales and hoods in the ancient Meitei mythology (old Manipuri mythology) and folklore.

They represent dual expressions of good and evil. Their behavior and their facial features imply that they are intelligent and they live by reason and not by instinct. They are also the symbols of healing, transformation and fertility.

IMMORTALITY:

The Lairels are considered to be immortal as they appear to be reincarnated from themselves when they sloughed their skin.

They are often associated with immortality as they bit their own tail to form a circle and when coiled to form a spiral.

Both circles and spirals are considered to be the symbols of eternity.

CREATION MYTHS:

The Lairels are also included in the creation myth. The classic incstances include that of Lord Pakhangba, the Supreme Ruler and the Protector of the universe.

Another significant creature is Lord Taoroinai, under whose navel is the position of the world itself.

WATER:

The Lairels are also associated with the mythology related to water. There are legends about various water monsters.

One significant example is the great Poubi Lai, who administers its tyranny in the Loktak lake and its peripheral kingdoms.

Later, with the help of a learnt tribal priest, Kabui Salang Maiba, the Lairel Poubi Lai was slain.

Besides, there’re innumerable legends associated with the Lairels in the rich granary of the ancient Meitei mythology (old Manipuri mythology), literature and folklore.