Ima Keithel (Mother's Market) - A Lament
Dr Ranbir Laishram *
A symbol of women's power.
Here I am,
Standing tall since 16th century,
Asia's largest all-women market,
More than a market.
Herein, I allow women to sell, debate,
Trade and protest.
A commercial center.
A hub of socio-political discussions.
I am a unique motif,
Representing the life and ethos of Manipur.
A symbol of cultural identity and gender equality.
A sign of women empowerment.
As an affectionate mother,
I hear your cries.
My daughter vendors,
Bread earners of families,
Your belongings in disarray.
Means of livelihood for countless women,
Deprived of by Covid - 19 pandemic.
Over the decades,
I endured hardships.
You made me remodelled,
To my pride and to the people.
On my lap and with two arms,
I used to caress you all.
My pavilion was full of life .
Now, absolute stillness everywhere,
Waiting for recuperating.
A recreational centre with a small earning,
For my elderly daughters,
Sheltering here for decades.
For generations,
They thrive on this sanctuary.
Now, in my humble abode,
With a feeling of mute and shut,
I am waiting for you all.
When will you come ?
My affectionate heiress!
It has been months.
I haven't seen you.
Never before in my life,
I felt so lonely.
I am waiting for the day,
With you all, full of life and joy
* Poem written by Dr Ranbir Laishram for The Sangai Express
This poem was webcasted on 27 November 2020.
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