Manipur’s age-old Subika paintings and an assistant professor’s struggle to save the art form

Dr Sapha is trying to preserve the ancient painting style used in the Puyas (archaic Manipuri manuscripts), specifically the Subika paintings, which are gradually fading into obscurity.

The Subika painting style is intricately linked to the Meitei community’s cultural history through its six surviving manuscripts — Subika, Subika Achouba, Subika Laishaba, Subika Choudit, Subika Cheithil and Thengrakhel Subika. Unfortunately, awareness about this unique art form has dwindled over the years, leading to its near extinction.

Illustration by Sapha Yumnam: From the tale And That is Why the Deer does not eat Rice
Illustration by Sapha Yumnam (Acrylic and ink on paper, 18×12 inches)

Among these manuscripts, Subika Laishaba represents a direct and authentic continuation of the Meitei cultural tradition depicted through visual images. Although the royal chronicle, Cheitharol Kumbaba, doesn’t mention a specific founder, there is a possibility that this art form existed when the writing tradition was introduced in the state.

Despite Manipur’s prominence in Raas leela and Nat Sangkritan, it lags behind in the field of visual arts. The historical roots, evident in Subika paintings, reveal a once prominent position. Experts estimate the use of Subika paintings since the 18th or 19th century.

Illustration by Sapha Yumnam: From the tale And That is Why Manipur is the Birthplace of Polo (Acrylic and ink on paper,  18×12 inches)

Dr Sapha, speaking exclusively to indianexpress.com, revealed that his childhood exposure to various art forms, including singing and theatre, paved the way for his career in the field. After completing his 12th standard, he pursued his graduation at Imphal Art College, setting the stage for a career in painting.

In 2006, his encounter with cultural activist Mutua Bahadur introduced him to the Subika painting used in the Puyas. At that time, he never considered incorporating this style into his work. Subsequently, during his master’s degree at Kairagarh University, he primarily focused on Western-style paintings. It was during this period that he envisioned merging Subika painting with Western styles to create a unique form of art, ultimately realising the importance of preserving traditional painting styles.

Illustration by Sapha Yumnam: From the tale And That is Why a Doll is Worshiped in Kakching village
Illustration by Sapha Yumnam (Acrylic and ink on paper, 18×12 inches_

After completing his master’s, Dr Sapha pursued a PhD at Hyderabad University, dedicating his research to the art and craft of the Meitei community. His collaboration with historian Wangam Somorjit provided deeper insights into Subika painting, leading to the creation of 15 artworks in this unique style.

Later, he collaborated with art curator L Somi Roy to publish a children’s storybook titled ‘And That Is Why’ under Penguin Publications, featuring numerous Subika-style paintings. In 2023, the folktale book ‘Feathers, Fools, and Farts: Manipuri Folktales Retold’ was also published, authored by L Somi Roy and Dr Thangjam Hindustani Devi, with illustrations by Dr Sapha.

In every corner of Manipur, distinct styles of art exist. Dr Sapha encourages younger generations to delve into research, aiming to create a significant platform for Manipuri art at the national and international levels. Through his efforts, the ancient Subika painting style may yet find a revival and secure its place in the contemporary artistic landscape.