Sanamahi, the supreme God of Meiteis and other indigenous tribes

The story of Sanamahi in Meitei lore parallels the themes of creation seen in scientific theories, such as the Big Bang (Thille Pokaiba), that describe the origin of the universe.

- YENGKHOM RONALD

Sanamahi is revered as the divine force behind all creation, responsible for bringing every living creature into existence. Sanamahi's role as the creator and sustainer of life embodies a profound reverence for the interconnectedness of all beings and the natural world.

In the indigenous belief system of Sanamahism, central to the Meitei people of Manipur, Sanamahi is indeed regarded as the focal point (Asuppa) of the universe's creation.

In Sanamahism, the focal point of the universe, Sanamahi, is not only the central source of creation but also embodies light in its purest and most divine form, known as 'Yelhoumei'.

The concept of a small unknown creation in liquid form, when there was no cloud or air, reflects the primordial state of the universe in Sanamahism. This idea is linked to the very beginning of creation when the universe was still in its earliest, unformed state before the introduction of elements like air, water, or even light. This unknown creation can be seen as a representation of the chaotic, formless potential from which all things would eventually emerge, guided by the will of Sanamahi. He embodies the ultimate source of life, energy, and order, and is seen as both the creator and sustainer of the cosmos.

Sanamahi is believed to have emerged from the divine essence, the eternal, formless, and infinite being who existed before time and space. This act of creation signifies that Sanamahi is not only a god but the essence through which the universe itself is formed. The concept of a central focal point is essential to the structure and direction of the universe. Sanamahi, as the primordial and supreme God, is believed to provide this central point, giving direction, balance, and order to existence.