Although ordeals such as immersion in water to solve disputes have become rare in Manipur, they are still sometimes carried out. So when Achungmei, our Community correspondent in Manipur, got to know that such an event was planned to happen soon, she was keen on document this unique custom. It was actually the first time in her life that she get the occasion to witness this disappearing practice.
The water ordeal consists of immersing the two disputants in water, and the culprit will eventually float, while the one within one’s rights is expected to sink. This method is rarely used in contemporary times, but the result of the ordeal is still widely accepted by members of the community.Though not totally believing in this custom, Achungmei thinks it is an interesting tradition. She was happy to have the occasion to watch and document this disappearing tradition of her community.
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