AT THE LIVELY crossroads market in Guwahati, where the pulse of existence is measured by the lively trade in fresh vegetables, a captivating blend of identities comes to the forefront. Something caught my attention that afternoon when I made my way in that crowded market to buy avocados and mustard leaves to take back for friends in Delhi. I hid behind my dark glasses and watched something as if recording in my mind’s gaze. I saw a Meitei vegetable vendor, sitting next to a Kuki-Zomi vegetable vendor – and going about their business as usual. In good times and even now, they share that space of proximity and comfort. The duo seemingly continues to enjoy that closeness and comfort of being there for each other in a land that’s not theirs. Being near each other must have provided solace beyond the confines of their home, serving as a source of support and strength. Despite their home state being engulfed in turmoil and people succumbing to the depths of hatred, they persist in doing so. Stepping away briefly, I observed another scene unfold: a Kuki-Zomi customer happily patronizing a Meitei vendor, purchasing a stock of greens. And really, why not? Within this kaleidoscope of diversity, a profound truth emerges — identities seamlessly blur and blend when the pursuit of livelihood surpasses divisive boundaries that are created by us.
Often, where identities are woven with historical nuances and cultural intricacies, the market serves as a microcosm of daily life. Here, the delineations of ethnicity and heritage blur, yielding to a shared space where survival and sustenance become the common ground.
While acknowledging the significance of identities as integral facets of our existence, it becomes increasingly clear that they cannot be the sole factors upon which to build our lives. Our identities serve to shape us, providing distinct characteristics that set us apart from the other. They are a collection of traits that differentiate one individual or a community from the other. Significantly, when away from home, our identity becomes a guiding force. Cultural, social, political, spiritual, and historical contexts often play a pivotal role in shaping our identities. A robust sense of identity enables understanding, appreciation, and pride in one’s cultural heritage. While identities hold significance, their complexity too are evident. According to Richard Jenkins, author of Social Identity, “identity involves knowing who we are, knowing who others are, them knowing who we are, us knowing who they think we are, and so on…” The concept of identity is intricate and multifaceted. We have permitted identity to take precedence over everything else, guiding us astray, at times and more so now. Our territorial instincts have intensified the “us versus them” mentality to such an extent that the essence of diversity is overshadowed.
Our strength and vibrancy stem from the eclectic unity of numerous faiths and communities. And, when for pursuit of higher callings in life, we relocate to metros, everything becomes blur, and our identity becomes a distinct part of ourselves, anchoring us in our roots. Identity is sacred and personal. It cannot be snatched away. At the same time, it cannot be the sole premise on which rests our existence and survival.
What must take centre stage in the pragmatic world we engage with, is the question of basic survival, sustenance and growth. The continuing unrest in Manipur has profoundly affected the state’s economic landscape. Businesses of all sizes – vendors to big business owners are in turmoil. It’s going to be a year in less over 54 days, and economic activities are severely impacted, with closed shutters, layoffs, and job losses, hindering any potential business prospects. According to media reports, retail inflation is reported at 11.63 percent, and the intermittent Internet bans have further exacerbated the challenges faced by both businesses, students preparing for several examinations and residents. As of today, 70,000 people are internally displaced. The young population, expected to be the foundation of the future, is shattered. A bleak future lies ahead.
To me, Manipur has always symbolized a fusion of diverse faiths and communities. It is in this coming together and embracing eclectic coexistence that I believed our notions of unity reached fruition. However, the reality is, whatever has occurred is now a dark history. Delving into a retrospective analysis of past shortcomings would only lead us into endless discussions and debates. What was lacking is a profound understanding of one another, a deficiency in mutual respect. The era of colonial rule is long gone, and no single community should unilaterally wield power and privilege. The state’s assets and infrastructure should have catered to the needs of all its people, rather than being centred around a singular community.
But, be that as it may, the collective question before the people of Manipur now, is whither Manipur? This core question implies the future or destiny of Manipur. The economic, social, and political trajectories of the state and importantly, at the heart of it all, is the people. Where do they go from here on? Intolerance cannot be the currency of growth. Perhaps, it’s time for a pragmatic solution and worry about the question of our sustenance. Perhaps, it’s time to encourage open and inclusive dialogue between the people. It is also time to accept that there are serious grievances of different groups and work towards finding mutually acceptable and credible solutions through negotiations.
And if, hypothetically, if we could forget all the divisions and disputes even for a second and ask a more obvious yet pertinent question on how, despite being an important border state of India, is our state allowed to burn for this long? That all the deaths, numbering nearly over 200, are deemed to be lesser lives as compared to death in other parts of our country, perhaps, then we would not only find some answers together. Having a solid foundation would enable us to unite swiftly and address crucial questions that hold significance for everyone. It would empower us to question authorities about the aimlessness we find ourselves in. However, this notion remains idealistic. Historically, we have not operated as a unified entity. We have not supported each other. Our interactions have been marked by internal conflicts rather than collective efforts. This division has been detrimental in the past and continues to harm us in the present.
Once again, the convergence that I witnessed in the Guwahati market stands as a living testament that in the end, it is also very much about the question of sustenance. Amidst the rhythmic cadence of daily commerce, the distinctions between Kuki-Zomi and Meitei identities appear to dissolve into the collective pursuit of livelihood. Livelihood and sustenance are key to our survival. And fundamentally, survival and prosperity are universal concerns that supersede the need for divisive disputes. As we navigate the complexities of identity, let the scene in Guwahati serve as a poignant reminder that within life’s grand tapestry, there exist spaces where threads intertwine, creating patterns that transcend divisions. The market transforms into a canvas where the hues of Kuki-Zomi and Meitei blend seamlessly, reminding us that, in the pursuit of livelihood, the most core to our survival, we must discover a common ground which fosters unity that extends beyond the market square into the heart of the people of Manipur.
(Hoihnu Hauzel is an independent journalist and founder of www.thenestories.com and www.thenortheastodyssey.com)
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