For Manipur’s weavers, exhibitions the sole lifeline post-COVID

Imphal: The global pandemic did not just impact corporations and businesses. The livelihoods of rural communities, especially tribal, was hit hard. One silver lining amid the pandemic, however, was how tribal women in Manipur took up weaving to supplement family income. Women weavers is not a new phenomenon, of course. In Manipur, women have played a crucial role in preserving the old-age weaving culture. The COVID pandemic has only reiterated its importance in the rural economy.

The ongoing Mai-Own 2021 exhibition at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal is part of the 4-year celebration of the present BJP government. It has opened new avenues for artisans and weavers.

The exhibition, which is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for Vocal for Local to Go Global and a step towards Atma Nirbhar Bharat, began on March 16 and will conclude on March 22.