Weaving Disarmament : Arts, Crafts and Paintings By People From Conflict Area

New Delhi, 26 September 2012:

Paintings of the Event

Film screenings and exhibition on the topic "Weaving Disarmament: Arts , crafts and paintings by people from conflict areas", was held on 24 and 25 Sept 2012 from 10am-5pm on both days to celebrate the 12 day campaign from International Day of Peace to International Day of Violence. The event was held at UN Conference Hall, United Nations Information Centre, 55 Lodi Estate, New Delhi 110003. The event was organized by Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network and Control Arms Foundation of India together with United Nations Information Centre (UNIC).

The event was organised to promote peace and non violence in every society. Over 20,000 people have been killed in the last five decades due to ongoing conflict in Manipur. Today more than 30 armed groups operate in Manipur - ranging from small outfits to organizations with several thousand members.

Besides them, dozens of battalions of the Indian Army and several units of Indian paramilitary forces are stationed throughout Manipur. Manipur is one of the most conflict-ridden states in India. Women and children of Manipur suffer most in this conflict. Every year 300 widows are born in the state as a result of arm violence.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Mrs Kiran Mehra-Kerpelman, Director, United Nations Information Centre (UNIC). She stated regarding the event, ''Absolutely amazing. The art shows that violence does not kill the creativity. And this wonderful endeavor is leading people hope and peace".

From R-L, Rajiv Chandran, Nation Information Officer, Sanjana, S.K. Kaul, Binalakshmi Nepram, Founder, Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network, Kiran Mehra-Kerpelman. Director

The exhibition showcases vibrant and colorful arts and crafts by women gun survivors of Manipur. The idea behind the event is to heal people from the conflict area so as to develop peace and Non-Violence and to showcase their talent and skills and giving hope for Peace and development in this region.

The exhibition includes beautiful paintings, photographs, handloom and handicraft products by Manipuri artisans and craftsman such as Manipuri shawls, 'enaphi'(Manipuri dupatta), hao phannek (Manipuri wrap around) , leiroom (hand woven scarf) , Kuki Shawls and 'Haophi'( Manipuri Shawls), traditional hand bags etc which signify the vibrant and rich crafts and artistic skills of the region. Products made from water reeds like mat, bowls, 'phiruk' (traditional Manipuri basket), 'lukmai' (traditional Manipuri tray) and decorative items were displayed at the exhibition.

Many people came and appreciated the initiative and the display of the exhibition. They encourage the work and creativity of the people from the region. The participants said that they got a new perception about Manipur stating that it was very good and touching exhibition.

"Due to overwhelming response, United Nations Information Centre, Delhi has asked CAFI (Control Arms Foundation of India) to repeat the "Weaving Disarmament" Exhibition during the Global Fortnight of Action to End Violence Against Women starting 26 November to 10 December 2012.

For Further Information, Please contact:

Binalakshmi Nepram
Founder, Manipur Women Gun Survivors Network
Secretary General, Control Arms Foundation of India
B 5 / 146, First Floor, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi - 110 029, India
Email: [email protected] , Phone: +91-11-46018541 Fax: +91-11-26166234,
Website: www.cafi-online.org ,
www.womensurvivorsnetwork.org,
www.neiwipblogspot.com ,
[email protected]

See the full photo gallery here