Latest news with #ImaKeithel
The Hindu
27-07-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Women's Business
The Ima Market, located in the centre of Manipur's capital Imphal, is a market entirely run by women. Known as Ima Keithel (Mother's Market) in the Meitei language or as Nupi Keithel (Women's Market), the bustling hub comprises three large buildings with pagoda-style roofs. It is a commercial centre as well as a popular tourist attraction. It was established in the 16th century and hosts 5,000–6,000 women vendors, who sell a variety of products such as vegetables, fruits, textiles, toys, fish, spices, and utensils. Male shopkeepers and vendors are not allowed to set up or run stalls in the market, and the State government has made it a punishable offence. Vendors at the market, dressed in traditional phaneks (long skirts tightly draped around the waist) and innaphis (shoulder drapes very similar to shawls), get ready every morning to welcome shoppers, many of them tourists. The economic backbone of many families, the market has served to empower women at the socio-economic level. Women in Manipur enjoy a unique status in society. Their empowerment is visible through their active participation in the economic realm. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who visited the market in November 2022, in a post on X, had lauded the market for being 'a great example of Nari Shakti (women's strength) powering economic growth'. Women from diverse faiths and tribes run their own stalls with pride and purpose. 'All of us come together and actively participate when it comes to issues concerning Manipur as a whole. We are not only contributing to the State's economy and supporting our families financially, but we also take part in important social and political matters. This involvement is not limited to just one district — women from all districts and communities, including Muslims and tribal groups, come together. They bring their local products to this market, sell them to us at wholesale rates, and we, in turn, sell those items. It's a wonderful and effective system,' a vendor told ANI last July. 'We want to bring peace. We all want to live together in harmony. Whether it's the Tangkhul, Naga, Kuki, or any other tribe in Manipur, we all wish to come together, work together, and live with love and unity,' said another vendor. (With ANI inputs) Cool-off point: A vendor sells ice cream at the buzzling Ima Market in the heart of Imphal. The market hosts 5,000-6,000 stalls and serves as a generational bridge Money makes money: Women running a money exchange business at the market Bait for buyers: Vendors sell dry fish at the Ima Market. Dry fish is a key part of Manipuri cuisine used in many of beloved dishes. Break time: An elderly woman takes a breather. Women from diverse faiths and tribes run their own stalls with pride and purpose at the market. Letting her hair down: Two vendors take a break from business and relax. Women at the market unwind by sharing stories and anecdotes Tea time: As dusk falls, eateries and snack outlets come to life as they get busy to welcome customers with lip-smacking delicacies. Who's next?: A woman clears the table at her eatery, which serves dishes made with rice.
India.com
11-07-2025
- India.com
Manipur Is Not on Most Travel Maps Yet – But These 10 Places Will Make You Want To Go Tomorrow
Manipur in North East India remains a hidden place for many travelers yet this state offers so many beautiful spots that will make you fall in love with it. If you wish to see green hills calm lakes old temples and colorful culture then Manipur will surprise you. Let us see 10 places in Manipur that you should visit soon. 1. Loktak Lake Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in North East India and it looks like a dream. The lake is famous for phumdis which are floating islands made of grass and soil. You can take a boat ride and see the small huts built on these floating islands. You can also see birds and enjoy fresh fish in local style food. Do not miss the sunset here as it turns the lake golden. 2. Keibul Lamjao National Park This national park is very special because it is the only floating national park in the world. It sits on the Loktak Lake and is home to the rare Sangai deer also called the dancing deer. The park is full of plants small lakes and green views. You can walk on wooden paths and watch the deer in their home. 3. Imphal City Imphal is the main city of Manipur but it feels peaceful compared to other big cities in India. Here you can visit Kangla Fort which was the seat of the old kings of Manipur. The fort has big gates old walls and green gardens. The Ima Keithel or Mothers Market is another place to see. Here only women run the stalls and sell vegetables clothes and handicrafts. 4. Ukhrul Ukhrul is a small hill town about 85 kilometers from Imphal. It is the home of the Tangkhul Naga tribe. The rolling hills fresh air and flower gardens make it a must-visit. You can see the famous Shirui Lily which grows only here during May and June. The small villages and green rice fields make you feel calm and close to nature. 5. Andro Village Andro is a cultural village near Imphal where you can see old pottery making methods. The people here make beautiful clay pots without modern machines. There is also a cultural complex where you can see old houses tools and clothes used by Manipuri people. This village gives you a chance to see real village life. 6. Moirang Moirang is a historic town and is close to Loktak Lake. It was once the center of the Indian National Army led by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. You can visit the INA Museum to see old photos letters and uniforms. Moirang is also famous for the Lai Haraoba festival which shows old dances and songs of Manipur. 7. Khongjom War Memorial Khongjom is a place where a big battle was fought between Manipuri soldiers and the British. The Khongjom War Memorial is built on a hill with a tall sword statue and wide green lawns It reminds people of the bravery of Manipuri fighters. You can spend a quiet evening here watching the sunset over the fields. 8. Tamenglong Tamenglong is a hidden gem for nature lovers. It has dense forests big waterfalls and lots of birds. You can see the Barak Waterfalls which fall in steps making small pools. You can also visit the Zeilad Lake which is surrounded by myths and local stories. The people here live simply and welcome guests with smiles. 9. Tharon Cave If you want to add adventure to your trip visit Tharon Cave. This cave is near Tamenglong and is about 655 meters long. The cave has old carvings and narrow paths where you can walk inside with a local guide and feel the cool air and mystery inside the stone walls. 10. Bishnupur Bishnupur is a small town with ancient temples made of bricks. The most famous is the Vishnu Temple which is over 500 years old and shows the mix of Hindu and local art The town is green and peaceful with small ponds and gardens. It is a good stop if you want calm moments. Why Visit Manipur Now? Manipur is still untouched by big crowds so you can see nature and culture in their true form. You can meet local people eat local food and learn about old dances and music. The roads are improving and many homestays are opening to welcome guests. Tips for Your Trip It is best to visit Manipur from October to March when the weather is cool and nice. Always carry warm clothes if you are visiting the hills. Take permission before taking photos of people and always respect local customs. Try to stay in homestays to help local families and taste home cooked food. Plan Your Trip Soon Manipur is waiting for you with open arms. These ten places show only a small part of what you can see here. Pack your bag take your camera and open your heart for a new adventure far from the busy cities. Discover Manipur before everyone else does and create memories that will stay with you forever.
