How to Pronounce Imphal

Meaning and Context

Imphal is the historic capital city of the Indian state of Manipur, a vital cultural and administrative hub nestled in the northeastern region of the country. Founded as the seat of the ancient Manipur Kingdom, its legacy is deeply intertwined with the classical dance form of Ras Lila and the sacred Manipur Shri Govindajee Temple. The city gained global strategic significance during World War II as the site of the pivotal Battle of Imphal in 1944, a decisive Allied victory that halted the Japanese advance into India, with war cemeteries and the Imphal War Cemetery serving as poignant memorials. Today, Imphal is a growing urban center that thrives on its ethnic diversity, being a gateway to the scenic Loktak Lake and the floating Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world. Its Kangla Fort, the ancient seat of power, and the vibrant Ima Keithel (Mother’s Market), operated entirely by women, are central to its socio-economic and tourism landscape, making it a key destination for cultural tourism in Northeast India.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The spelling "Imphal" is standard and universally accepted in English, with no major alternative spellings. Common errors typically arise from phonetic misspellings or typographical mistakes. These include "Imphall" (adding an extra 'l'), "Impal" (omitting the 'h'), or "Imfhal" (transposing the 'h' and 'f'). The city's name is sometimes incorrectly prefixed with "the," as in "the Imphal," which is grammatically unnecessary. In historical or regional contexts, one might encounter older transliterations from Manipuri (Meitei), but "Imphal" remains the definitive modern English rendering. Attention to the unique "ph" digraph, which produces an 'f' sound, is key to correct spelling.

Example Sentences

Planning a trip to Northeast India often includes a visit to Imphal to explore the ruins of Kangla Fort and pay respects at the Imphal War Cemetery.

The bustling Ima Keithel in the heart of Imphal offers a unique insight into the matriarchal economic systems of Manipur.

Historians regard the Battle of Imphal as one of the most critical engagements of the Asia-Pacific theater during World War II.

To understand the region's spiritual heritage, tourists frequently visit the Manipur Shri Govindajee Temple in Imphal.

The city's airport, officially known as Imphal International Airport, has improved connectivity, boosting cultural tourism in the state.

Local artisans in Imphal are renowned for their intricate handloom and handicraft products, which are celebrated nationwide.

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