Tangkhul Women League Celebrates International Women’s Day

Imphal, Mar 8: The Tangkhul Shanao Long Imphal (TSLI), or Tangkhul Women League Imphal, marked International Women’s Day cum Tangkhul Shanao Long Day with a vibrant and meaningful event at the MBC Recreation Centre in Imphal. Against the backdrop of this year’s global theme, “Accelerate Action,” the TSLI embraced its own powerful theme, “Respect Cultural Rights of Women,” spotlighting the urgent need to honour cultural diversity while advancing gender equality. The celebration blended tradition, inspiration, and a rallying cry for societal change, drawing attention to the pivotal role women play in preserving culture and fostering social harmony.

The event featured a lineup of distinguished speakers, cultural showcases, and activities aimed at empowering women and youth while celebrating Tangkhul heritage. Dr. Ringkahao Horam, Principal of Pettigrew College, Ukhrul, delivered the keynote address, setting the tone for a day of reflection and action. Madam Grace Shatsang, the first president of TSLI, took attendees on a journey through the organization’s history, highlighting its legacy of advocacy and community upliftment.

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Eminent voices, including Rev. F. Robert Somi, Parish Priest; Dr. IK Muivah, IPS, Additional Director General of Police, Government of Manipur; and Luckyson Ngamsha Kashung, IAS, Joint Secretary (Textile Commerce & Industries), shared diverse perspectives on the role of the Tangkhul Women League and the challenges women face in conflict situations. Their insights underscored the need to dismantle societal biases, customs, and laws that hinder equality, urging both society and the state to accelerate efforts toward justice and inclusion.

A highlight of the day was the felicitation of Ql. Zuringla Kengoo Chalhang, who recently won the prestigious Indian Express Excellence in Governance Award in the e-Governance category. Her achievement served as an inspiration to attendees, showcasing the impact of women’s leadership. Adding a cultural flourish, Guru Reuben, a Padmashree Awardee, captivated the audience with a folk song performance on his masterful traditional instruments.

The program was a feast for the senses, featuring Tangkhul indigenous cuisines, traditional attires, and local food stalls run by young women entrepreneurs. Folk songs and music filled the air, while a declamation contest on Tangkhul Shanao and a painting competition themed “Haoshim” made their debut in TSLI’s history. These initiatives aimed to encourage young artists to preserve their cultural heritage through creative expression, marking a significant step toward engaging the next generation.

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The TSLI emphasized that respecting the cultural rights of women is not just a moral imperative but a cornerstone of social harmony. “Women are the custodians of our culture,” the organization stated, calling for collective action to eliminate barriers and ensure no one is left behind in the pursuit of equality. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to accelerating change, blending tradition with progress in a celebration that resonated far beyond the venue.