Manipuri folklore and myths are an integral part of the state's cultural heritage. Some popular stories include:

Many stories draw inspiration from Khamba and Thoibi , the ultimate epic of star-crossed lovers.

Manipuri stories are deeply rooted in the region's culture, mythology, and history. Many traditional stories are based on the life of Lord Krishna and the Radha-Krishna legend. Some popular traditional Manipuri stories include:

While technically a folktale, the transcribed versions by scholars like N. Khelchandra Singh read like high romantic fiction. The story of Khamba and Thoibi is the longest ballad in the history of Manipuri literature. A without this is like a sky without stars. It is the Romeo and Juliet of the East, with a happier ending and a lot more wrestling (Khamba was a champion wrestler).