There exist various lakes in the world that bear names so beautiful and metaphorical that they would fit even the most ardent poets, however, one of them is inarguably the most outstanding because of its great emotional and cultural significance. The lake, mainly known as the “Lake of Tears,” is intricately connected with the legends, traditions, and the cultural background of the area where it lies.
Loktak Lake: The Lake of Tears
The Loktak Lake featuring in the state of Manipur is popularly known as the “Lake of Tears,” which was derived from the old and long-standing stories and cultural beliefs that have been passed down through the ages. The one and only freshwater lake is also known for phumdis, floating islands, and also the people of Manipur are very much related to it. Legends speak of the lake as a place where memories, grief, and love are kept, and this is how the lake received its emotional title.
Why Loktak Is Called the Lake of Tears
The ancient tales tell us about a time when the families of war or disaster victims would go to the lake, cry, and pray silently, believing that the lake would take their grief away along with the serenity of its waters, thus making the entire Loktak a symbol of the merging of emotions and memory.The lake is still considered a cultural and emotional landmark of Manipur.
Northeast India’s Largest Freshwater Lake
Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake of Northeast India and a lifeline for local people. Thousands of people rely on it for fishing, farming, transporting, and tourism. The floating phumdis drift along with the changing seasons, thus adding a miracle of nature that is always changing and also the beauty of nature is the main factor that attracts tourists.
Home to the World’s Only Floating National Park
Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is the sole floating national park globally, is beautifully placed at the heart of Loktak Lake. The precious park is completely on phumdis and is the familiar ground of the extraordinary Sangai deer that is christened as the “dancing deer” of Manipur and a significant draw for tourists. The strange and rare species of the lake contribute to its being one of the most amazing places on Earth from the ecological point of view.
Key Facts About the Lake of Tears
- Floating islands: Loktak is the only freshwater lake on Earth with large natural floating islands that shift throughout the year.
- Floating national park: It hosts Keibul Lamjao, home to the endangered Sangai deer.
- Massive waterbody: Spanning nearly 300 sq km, it is one of India’s largest lakes and a major source of livelihood.
- Lifeline of Manipur: The lake supports drinking water, irrigation, fishing, and hydropower for the region.
Loktak Lake is absolutely due to its combination of natural beauty, cultural symbolism, and ecological significance. That’s why it is very aptly known as”lake of tears.”
