MLA salutes spirit of Khwairamband Keithel
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 05 2023:
The historic Khwairamband Keithel reflects unity in diversity.
This is a place where people of all communities and origins come, said MLA Thangjam Arunkumar.
Attending the 40th foundation day of Manipur Keithel Nupi Marup at Khwairamband Keithel today, Th Arunkumar said, the all-women market can't be ignored and overlooked when identifying Manipur.
The Keithel (market), he said, is a place that nurtures unity in diversity.
Khwairamband Ima Keithel is known across the world as an all-women market.
One unique character of the Keithel is that the women in the market play a central role in every major issue of the State.
The famous Nupi Lan of 1904 and 1939 during World War-II are the proof, Th Arunkumar said.
Also, the Khwairamband Ima Keithel has a place in world history.
Ethel St Clair Grimwood, the wife of then political agent of Manipur Frank Grimwood, wrote about Manipur and Ima Keithel in her book "My Three Years In Manipur", he added.
The MLA also noted that the Khwairamband Keithel also plays an important and significant role in improving the economy of the State.
Khwairamband Keithel provides livelihood to the women and their families and it helps them send their children to schools and colleges for education.
Many Government officers and lawmakers have been born of the sweat of the women in the market, he said.
While acknowledging and appreciating the womenfolk of the Keithel for the role they play in the society, Th Arunkumar appealed to them to continue supporting the cause of the State and promote development.
Manipur Keithel Nupi Marup president Yambem Ibeni, Ima Bhidhu, Ima RK Sanahanbi and other women vendors of the Keithel attended the celebration.