Manipur's rich cultural heritage showcased on ramp

Manipur has unique traditional attires, weapons and tools used for various purposes where a fashion extravaganza was recently organised here to showcase the history and rich cultural heritage of the state.

Dressed in traditional Manipuri dress, models sashayed down the ramp in Imphal. The event was organized at Iboyaima Sumang Leela Shanglen under the banner of 'Sagonarakpa Natki Saktam'.Altogether 28 models from Manipur were invited to give the show an ethnic look.

The show aimed at highlighting the uniqueness of the region with special focus on traditional tools.

" Fashion shows are often organized in Manipur but most of the shows are based on very casual themes. Today, I organized this fashion show based on different tools that has been an integral part of Manipur culture. I want to show such traditional tools to other people outside our state," said, Model cum Fashion Designer and Organizer, Chanam Dilip.

During the show, young Manipuri artists enthralled the audience by performing Maibi Jagoi, a traditional Manipuri dance.

The models highlighted the traditional dresses and various tools like Poon, Shuk, Yangkok, Arambai, Shingjang, Potpu Langon, Thumok, Lang and Lei Polang.

"I am lucky to participate in this kind of fashion show which we portray on Manipur culture and tradition. This kind of fashion show is very unique as we models walk a ramp in different styles and showcase our rich traditional tools like polang, Ina Manipur etc," said a model Bembem.

"People think that fashion show is just for entertainment but this type of show prove that we are also contributing something to our society by showcasing our beautiful attire of different community," said another model, Rakesh Nongmaithem.

Many talented fashion designers from the Northeast are working in cities across the country and abroad. They can contribute in a large way to promote the rich cultural heritage of the region through fashion.