Weaving together Tradition and Digital

Economic empowerment of Indigenous women artisans of Manipur with digital and e-commerce literacy

Supported by

Empowering Indigenous Women Artisans of Manipur

e-Nupikeithel (Nupi means women, Keithel means market in Manipuri) is a transformative initiative supported by the Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF). Our mission is to empower women artisans from various tribes of Manipur who are dedicated to preserving one of eight ethnic dying crafts. These crafts have been carefully selected based on the active involvement of women artisans .

Through e-Nupikeithel, we aim to preserve these traditional crafts and heritage by providing essential education in digital media, e-commerce, and product quality & sustainability.

By equipping these talented women with modern skills and knowledge, we help them reach broader markets, achieve fair prices for their products, and sustain their livelihoods. Our holistic approach not only ensures the survival of these endangered crafts but also fosters economic growth and cultural preservation for future generations.

8

20

Women Artisans

Ethnic dying crafts

Learn more

4

Districts of Manipur, India

8 ethnic dying crafts of Manipur

Preserving the 8 indigenous dying crafts of Manipur and their heritage.

Lashingphee

The lasingphee (quilted cotton material) is produced in Manipur and used as a covering in winter. Colours are obtained from natural sources and the juice of wild indigo is used as a black or dark blue dye. A bark from the plains is used for a red shade, and green, yellow, and orange are obtained from the bark of jungle trees.

Shaphee Lanphee

Shaphee Lanphee is a traditional textile fabric woven and embroidered by Meitei women of Manipur. The fabric was, in the past, presented as a gift of honour (Mana Phee) to the soldiers for their bravery in a successful war, and to the praise-worthy chiefs of the Nagas of Manipur by the king of Manipur.

The pottery-making process was traditionally a communal activity in the Tangkhul Naga community, with women gathering to collect the clay and weathered rock, and then working together to create the pottery. The pottery was used for a variety of purposes, including cooking, serving food, and storing water.

Brick red Pottery of Andro

Brick red pottery or Charai Taba or coiled pottery is a unique handicraft associated with the tribal community of Andro in Manipur. This heritage craft has been a distinct identity marker for the Andro settlers and remains a strong link between the present community and their ancestral traditions.

Red ochre pottery of Nongpok Sekmai

Red ochre pottery of Nongpok Sekmai is traditionally used for rituals in the Meetei community. The craft is practiced by women artisans of Nongpok Sekmai in Thoubal district, Manipur.

Redware pottery of Chairel and Thongjao

The residents of Thongjao Village in Thoubal District of Manipur are considered to be ancient pottery makers. The distinguishing feature of Thongjao pottery is its scarlet tan colour. It is mostly made by women using slabbing and shaping techniques.

Greyware pottery of Karong

The pottery of Ningthemcha Karong is known for its shapes and the decorations of the hookah cups and hookah tops except for the smoking pipes which are traditionally used in rituals and ceremonies Meetei community of Manipur.

Wood carving of Tangkhul

A traditional craft that showcases the rich cultural heritage and artistic skill of the Tangkhul tribe of Ukhrul, Manipur. This craft involves the intricate carving of wood into various forms, including masks, sculptures, and everyday objects, often depicting tribal folklore, deities, and nature.

Glossy black Pottery of Nungi

Lashingphee

The lasingphee (quilted cotton material) is produced in Manipur and used as a covering in winter. Colours are obtained from natural sources and the juice of wild indigo is used as a black or dark blue dye. A bark from the plains is used for a red shade, and green, yellow, and orange are obtained from the bark of jungle trees.

Greyware pottery of Karong

The pottery of Ningthemcha Karong is known for its shapes and the decorations of the hookah cups and hookah tops except for the smoking pipes which are traditionally used in rituals and ceremonies Meetei community of Manipur.

Women Artisans of Manipur

Meet the women artisans of Manipur who are not just talented but play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, fostering creativity, and driving economic growth.