Workshop on traditional applique ends
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 26 2012: The closing ceremony of the 10-day workshop cum exhibition on 'reviving traditional applique art of Manipur' organised by Department of Art and culture, was held today at Palace Compound with first Lady of Manipur Kiran Jagat and former Director (Art & Culture) Dr Kh Sorojini Devi as the chief guest and functional president respectively.

While highlighting that she had long been an ardent admirer of women weavers and embroidery artisans of Manipur, Kiran Jagat noted that compared to weaving and embroidery being an intrinsic part of the rural life in India, in Manipur the said activities thrive in almost every households.

The peculiar aspect of this expertise in Manipur is that it is only practised by the women, said the chief guest who made special mention of blending of colours, exquisite designs of flowers, leaf, birds, fish and even the most subtle and hidden designs taken from nature.

Expressing that keenness to learn the intricacies and exquisiteness involved in the weaving and embroidery works inspired her to try her hands with the assistance of one of the Raj Bhavan ladies, Kiran Jagat conceded that she realised she was 20 years too late to learn the trade for her body betrayed the soul's yearning to learn.

She, nevertheless, conveyed that the weaving apparatus would be preserved as a fond memory of her meagre effort.

Stating that the Meitei cultural tradition of the art of weaving is based on the mythical foundation, the first Lady opined that it only because of divine intervention why weaving and embroidery works by Manipuri women artisans are so unique and beautiful.

It is written in the ancient manuscript that Goddess panthoibi weaved the first cloth from material obtained from the soft membrane of wood and bamboo, she quoted to explain her opinion while pointing out that inspite vagueness regarding origin of Leeba or practice of embroidery in Meitei society records indicate that it was practised in the 17th century.

Kiran Jagat also applauded the exhibition participants for their efforts and determination to preserve the ancient traditions of Manipuri weaving.

In her address, Dr kh Sorojini said as applique art is associated with the day-to-day life of Manipur the same need to be preserved by every section of the society.

She also pointed out that along with the effort of the local artisans there is need for the Government department to promote the art of weaving and embroidery.

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