Flood destroys home of resilient siblings
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 04 2025: For Naoroibam Birjit and his younger brother Loyalakpa, life has always been a struggle, a daily battle against poverty, hardship and uncertainty.

Living with their aged parents at Heingang Mayai Leikai, the two brothers have long been the sole breadwinners for the family, taking up odd jobs that came their way, from iron works to construction labour.

But even with nothing much to hold on to, the siblings never gave up.

Their dream was simple yet powerful, to live a dignified and happy life through sheer hard work and determination.

That dream, however, suffered a heavy blow when the Imphal River breached its bank near Heingang Mayai Leikai on May 31, completely destroying their modest home.

Flood destroys home of resilient siblings

The family is now taking shelter in the relief camp opened at Panthoibi Lampak, Heingang Mayai Leikai, along with several other flood-affected families.

Speaking to this daily, Naoroibam Birjit shared his journey.

"I stopped school after Class VIII because I had to work," he said, adding "But I always wanted to study again." Years later, with help from Don Bosco's literacy programme, which covered half the expenses, and support from Unique Model Academy for the rest, Birjit resumed his education and eventually completed graduation.

Despite constant struggle, the brothers never lost their sense of purpose.

They have also been deeply involved in preserving their cultural heritage.

Loyalakpa, the brother sibling, grew up with a deep love for Thang-Ta, the traditional martial art of Manipur.

He won gold medals at national level competitions and completed an MA in Thang-Ta from the Manipur University of Culture.

He is also a member of Arambai Tenggol, actively engaged in community service.

Both brothers believe that preserving one's roots and culture is just as important as earning a livelihood.

Whether it is performing Thang-Ta or rebuilding a home after the flood, they carry the same unshakeable spirit, to keep moving forward, no matter the odds.

Now living in a temporary shelter, the family faces an uncertain future.

But if their past has shown anything, it is that even the most difficult circumstances cannot break their spirit.

"We have lost everything again," said Birjit, "But not our hope" .