NUPI observes Nupi Lan day in New Delhi
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, December 12 2024: The Ningols United Progressive Initiative (NUPI), a women's civil society based in Delhi, joined hands with six Meetei organisations across India, commemorating the historic Nupi Lan day at Delhi University polo ground, GTB Nagar on Thursday.

The women's wings of the six organisations which participated in the function included Manipuri in Kolkata, Indigenous Manipuri Association, Guwahati; Mumbai Manipuri Association Nupi Lup; Meitei Nupi Lup Foundation, Pune; Manipuri Meitei Association, Bangalore; and Takhel Leima Tengbang Lup, Agartala, Tripura.

In a statement, NUPI informed that the function served as an opportunity to learn more about Nupi Lan, meaning "women's war" in Manipuri, referring to two epochal uprisings led by women in Manipur, British India, against colonial authorities.

These uprisings, in 1904 and 1939, showcased the resilience and activism of Manipuri women in challenging colonial rule and advocating for their rights.

The commemorative programme included a marathon race, flagged off by international footballer Ngangom Bala Devi, Manipuri film actress Soma Laishram, and Poknapham senior reporter Sonia Sorengsangbam.

Participants aged between 18 and 60 years took part in the marathon race.

A friendly football match between veteran women and young women was also kicked off by Bala Ngangom.

Patriotic recitation and song competitions were also held for both children and adults.

Ngangom Bala Devi, the first Indian female football player to score 50 international goals; actress and social activist Soma Laishram; senior journalist of Poknapham Sonia Sorengsangbam; historian Dr Malem Ningthouja; IAS officer Devesh Dayal; and MPS officer Lakshmi Thingbaijam delivered speeches at the event.

Bala described the event as a tribute to the women of Manipur, highlighting their compassion, talent, and international achievements.

She expressed pride in Manipur's heritage and the strength of its women while emphasising the need for concerted efforts for return of normalcy in Manipur, urging both state and central governments to prioritise the restoration of peace and protection of the people.

Stating that Nupi Lan demonstrated courage and unity of Manipuri women, Soma Laishram cherished their role and contributions in protecting the society, preserving culture, and making sacrifices, including in the on-going crisis.

Ranjana Longjam also reflected on the resilience of Manipuri women, especially in the present crisis, in fighting to protect the integrity of Manipur and described Nupi Lan as an ode to the indomitable spirit of Manipuri women as Dr Malem Ningthouja extolled the enduring spirit of Nupi Lan in collective actions to defend human rights, territorial integrity, and fight against social evils, drug menace, narco-ter-rorists, and invaders.

Meanwhile, Sonia Sorengsangbam, who attended the event as chief guest, called for unity to bring peace and harmony to the strife-torn Manipur.

She urged the people to work together to make their mothers proud and spread the fearless nature of Manipuri women on the auspicious occasion of Nupi Lan.

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