Over 500 women relive the spirit of Nupi Lan
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 12 2022: Mani-pur remembered the second Nupi Lan of December 12, 1939 and paid fitting tributes to the women who revolted against the British colonial rule.

While the commemoration was observed across the State, 31st Nupi Lan Ningshing Lamjel (Nupi Lan Memorial Run) participated by around 500 women of different communities marked the commemoration at Imphal.

MAHUD Minister Yum-nam Khemchand flagged off the memorial run from the Nupi Lan Complex at Nityaipat Chuthek at 7 am and it concluded at the Nupi Lan Memorial at Singjamei Super-Market.

Afterwards, Yumnam Khemchand led people in paying floral tributes to the Nupi Lan memorial statue.

As chief guest, MAHUD Minister Yumnam Khem-chand said Nupi Lan is of great historical importance and is a significant example which shows that the wo-men have been playing ma- jor roles in shaping and saving Manipur.

During the colonial period in 1939, the Britishers along with the Marwari traders had caused artificial famine in Manipur as result of rampant export of rice.

To fight the British induced famine, the brave women of Manipur started a strong mass movement against the colonisers.

It was a first of its kind movement led by the women.

They and their movement should not be forgotten, Yumnam Khemchand said.

The women of the State have always been in the forefront in all major issues.

They also started "Nisha Bandh" to fight drug abuse.

When the men are only shouting slogans to save and preserve culture and tradition, it is the women, who are actually keeping the culture alive by wearing traditional and cultural clothes, said the Minister.

He also mentioned that the all women Khwairamband Keithel is one of the most important markets in the entire world.

Khwairamband Keithel is empowering the women and earning the livelihoods of their families.

Yumnam Khemchand also greeted the people, specially women on the Nupi Lan anniversary and wished for an end to crime against women.

Notably, the Nupi Lan Memorial Run was organised in three categories.

In the 35-45 year category, N Sunita, M Sandhyrani and W Silpa were adjudged 1st, 2nd and 3rd position respectively.

In the 46-59 year category, P Indira, S Bideshini and M Kiran stood first, 2nd and 3rd respectively.

In the 60 and above category, Ch Thambalsang finished first while Th Akashini and K Kuthum finished 2nd and 3rd respectively.

Salam Mani, aged 91 years, of Singjamei Chingamakha Kshetri Leikai was the oldest participant in the Nupi Lan Memorial Run.

She was honoured with gifts.

Several Manipuri women from Assam's Cachar district also took part in the memorial run.

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