SAMU MAKHONG

Popularly known as Samu Makhong, to be found in the heart of main market of Imphal city, is the sculpture of King Chingthangkhomba ready to mount an elephant, also known as Maharaja Bheigyachandra, the king of Manipur who tamed a rogue elephant of the king of Tekhao (now Assam). Legend had it that, after suffering defeat from the hands of Khellei Nongnang Telheiba, King of Moirang, Chingthangkhomba took shelter under the Tekhao King Rajeshwar. However, the Tekhao King doubted Chingthangkhomba's true identity as a Meeitei King. To prove himself as a Meetei King, Chingthangkhomba had to undergo a bout in the ring with a rogue elephant. If he could survive or could dominate the onslaught of the wild elephant - he would be regarded as a true Meetei King. All night long before the ordeal, he prayed to Lord Krishna to give him the strength for the battle next day and in the process fell asleep. The Lord came in his dream and promised him he would win over the elephant. For that, in return, he would have to carve out an idol of the Lord from the Theibong Tree found in Kaina Hills of Manipur - when he return to his homeland.

Next day, to the surprise of all, the elephant did fell to the feet of King Chingthangkhomba. After that, the King of Tekhao regarded him as the true Meeitei King and helped him regain his lost kingdom.

True to the promises of his Lord, King Chingthangkhomba did carved out an idol from the wood (Theibong tree) found in the Kaina Hills (as indicated in his dreams) and install the idol in the Lord Govindajee Temple for worship - which is still in existence today.