Manipur women recall Nupi Lan movement by participating in marathon

Following tradition, the Nupi Lal Ningshing Lamjel Observation Committee of Imphal on Monday organised marathon race for women here.

The marathon was held in connection with the observation of 25th State Level Nupi Lal Ningshing Lamjel and Ningshing Thouram.

Nupi Lan, meaning women's war in Manipuri, is one of the important movements that brought about a change in the history of women. It was this movement which sowed new seeds of economic and political reform for a new Manipur in the early 40's.

The Nupilal Memorial Committee and the Manipur government observe Nupilal every year on December 12 at the Nupilal complex near the Imphal post office. The event sees hundreds of women taking part in the memorial run from the Nupilal complex to the Singjamei super market.

The marathon, this year, witnessed the participation of around 900 women above thirty years of age and from all communities.

The marathon race covered a total distance of three kilometres.

Covering all age-groups, the marathon was divided into three categories:

• Green (30-40 years of age)

• Yellow (40-59 years of age)

• Pink (above 59 years)

Sonia Kangbam of Thiyam Konjil Awang Leikai, Ningthoujam Momota Devi of Thiyam Konjil Awang Leikai, Laishram Manisana Leima of Khurai Chaithabi Leirak stood first, second and third respectively in the Green category.

In the Yellow category, Saikhom Bideshini Devi of Khangabok bagged first position, whereas, Paonam Indira Devi of Takyel Khongbal, Khoibam Sodiya devi of Kiyamgei Khoirom Leikai and Anoubam Maloti Devi of Lamsang Bazar acquired second, third and fourth positions respectively.

In the Pink category, the first position was secured by Th. Ibemhal of Khongjom, whereas, second, third and fourth position was secured by Th. Ekashini of wangoi, N. Memcha of Lilong Chajing, N. sanatombi of Pangei and I. Linthoingambi of Kakwa respectively.