Role and Status of Maechi and Maibi in the Religion of Thai (Thailand) and Meitei (Manipur)

The research question of this article is: “Is there gender equality in the Meitei and Thai societies?” This article aims to discuss: 1) the role and status of Maechi in Buddhism (Thailand); 2) the role and status of Maibi in Sanamahism (Manipur); and 3) the similarities and differences of Maechi and Maibi in terms of their roles and status. This comparative study of Maechi and Maibi is important because it can be valuable for gender studies, roles, inequality, culture, religion, power, leadership, and decision-making. The study employed a rapid literature review, which involved searching and reviewing historical accounts and literature available online and in print, as well as participant observation of the daily activities of these religions. Results revealed remarkable differences between Maechi and Maibi, such as the restriction of Maechi in the decision-making process and the power hierarchy of the Thai Buddhist religious organization council, while the Maibi acts as the priestess and are the core ritual functionaries in the Meitei religious rituals and ceremonies. The study concluded that despite the Maibi’s superordinate position in the traditional Meitei religion, there is gender inequality in other spheres of the Meitei society such as in the rights to property inheritance and having a son’s preference. Religious beliefs of both religions have played a dominant role in defining women’s roles and status. Gender roles and status, therefore, are socially constructed based on socio-cultural and religious norms.