Manipur
A Tangkhul Naga writer’s quest to keep his community’s memories alive
Jim Wungramyao Kasom, a Tangkhul Naga writer shares the inspiration behind his works and the importance of writing for a community that relies heavily on oral traditions to preserve its history.
Tangkhul Nagas stare at threadbare future of backstrap weaving
Backstrap weaving is woven into the cultural fabric of the indigenous Tangkhul Naga community. With changing preferences and mechanical looms producing cheaper garments, the art of backstrap weaving appears to be on the threshold of oblivion.
Shaktiman – How a military truck became an off-road king in Manipur
Shaktiman, a medium-capacity truck that was used by the Indian defence forces from 1959 to 1996 enjoys a new lease of life as a multipurpose off-road truck in the hilly Ukhrul and Kamjong districts of Manipur.
Mount Wuya Kachui – Manipur’s mystical hillock of flowers
The mist-covered Wuya Kachui, which translates to Mountain of Sleep Paralysis thanks to a local legend, is popular for its wuyawon or pink orchid ginger flowers that clothe the hillsides in pink in July every year, attracting tourists.
Manipur’s Naga entrepreneur champions indigenous farming practices
From using local berries in chocolates to rewilding and revitalising tribal forests, this confectioner is championing indigenous food systems in Manipur.
Exciting village festivals you can attend this March
Spring is here! And rural India is getting ready to celebrate the blooming season with festivities that reflect each region’s cultural richness. These are some of the most vibrant festivals you can enjoy this March.
Manipur woman makes clothes with lotus stem fibre
Bijiyashanti Tongbram, a 30-year-old entrepreneur from Manipur, makes mufflers and stoles by spinning lotus stems. Her innovation caught the attention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
100-yr-old shawls to WW-II objects, Manipur woman preserves relics
From old traditional attire to ‘Mickey Mouse money’, Vasai Zimik Ringkhanring from Sirarakhong village in Manipur owns a collection of over 1,000 historical artefacts amassed over 20 years
The exuberant post-wedding bridal march of Tangkhul Nagas
Ngala katha remains a prominent tradition in Tangkhul Naga weddings, enduring despite modernization. The vibrant post-wedding march from bride's to groom's house is cherished as its highlight.
A Manipur village dares to dream, one Kachai lemon at a time
The Kachai lemon of Manipur has transcended its role as a mere fruit to become a catalyst for economic empowerment and self-reliance for people.
Manipur’s transmen’s football team transforms lives
Ya_All, a UN-recognised LGBTI+ youth-led organisation in Imphal, Manipur, symbolises resilience and inclusivity in Northeast India. This groundbreaking initiative goes beyond sports, making a significant impact.
Manipur kindergarten kids learn to rock
Pam’s Kindergarten in Ukhrul seamlessly integrates music with the foundations of early education, showcasing the remarkable talents of its young students, particularly with the ukulele.
This Manipur designer’s creations echo tribal roots
Designer Easternlight Zimik draws from tribal heritage for his latest kashan (wraparound) collection, aiming to redefine conventional attire and empower rural Ukhrul's weavers.
Manipuri film ‘Andro Dreams’ dribbles past gender stereotype
Filmmaker Meena Longjam’s ‘Andro Dreams’ breaks the mould of sports films, offering a nuanced perspective on a Manipur village, challenging societal norms through the lens of an all-girls football team.
Tangkhul Naga catering start-up transforms traditional feasts
In Manipur’s Ukhrul district, where the concept of catering is a novelty, Hao services caterers has revolutionised Tangkhul Naga norms surrounding feasts and empowered local women, who cook magical dishes and earn a decent income.
Inspiring rural women who defied expectations
They had only a dream to start with. And they have made their mark in various fields with a never-quit spirit. This International Day of Rural Women, we revisit some inspiring stories covered on Village Square.
Shirui lilies add to Manipur colour amid concerns
Locals say Manipur’s state flower faces serious threats from the influx of tourists who will descend shortly like every year to witness them bloom in Kashong peak.
Manipur youngster tackles life’s odds to scorch football pitch
Scolded often for neglecting studies and obsessing over football in earlier times, Hormipam Ruivah from Manipur today plays for Kerala Blasters and is a sporting icon.
Manipur’s drug saviour
Pamkhuila Shaiza, 36, and her Bredwell Correctional Facility in Ukhrul counsel hundreds of substance abusers and strive to support them in their arduous journey towards rehabilitation.
Photo essay: Sowing seeds of festivity in Manipur
The Tangkhul tribe in Manipur sows seeds – with so much fun and fanfare – it’s an annual festival. The Luira Phanit festival is celebrated a little differently in each village. Here’s a look at Nungbi Khullen’s celebration.