The Delhi-based women's civil society group, Ningol United Progressive Initiative (NUPI), commemorated Nupi Lan at Delhi University today, with ace footballer Ngangom Bala and actress Soma Laishram gracing the event.
In a statement signed by its secretary, Lieutenant Colonel (retired) L. Girija, NUPI announced that the event was organized in collaboration with several organizations, including the Women's Wing of Manipuris in Kolkata, the Indigenous Manipuri Association (IMA) Women's Wing in Guwahati, the Mumbai Manipuri Association NUPI Lup, the Meitei NUPI Lup Foundation in Pune, the Women's Wing of the Manipuri Meitei Association, Bangalore (MMAB), and Takhel Leima Tengbang Lup in Agartala.
The event serves as an opportunity to delve deeper into Nupi Lan, a historic movement that showcased the resilience and courage of Manipuri women in resisting colonial rule and fighting for their rights. The observance featured a marathon race, a patriotic recitation competition, a patriotic song competition, and a football match.
Speaking at the event, Ngangom Bala, the first Indian female footballer to score 50 international goals, highlighted the remarkable achievements of Manipuri women, emphasizing their innate compassion and talent that have propelled them to excel on the global stage.
She expressed her pride in the rich heritage of the state and the remarkable women who represent Manipur, stating that, "No matter where I travel, there's truly no place like Manipur. I wish the younger generation would emulate the strength, compassion, and unwavering love that define our women. Once a Manipuri woman makes a decision, she is resolute."
Bala emphasized that the future of Manipur would remain uncertain without peace and urged both the Central and State Governments to prioritize restoring normalcy in the region. Soma highlighted that Nupi Lan embodies the courage and unity of Manipuri women, who bravely resisted colonial oppression and led the struggle for justice and reform.
She added that Manipuri women have demonstrated exceptional resilience and strength, even in the face of the ongoing crisis. "Today, we honor the sacrifices of our emas whose strength defines the soul of Manipur," Soma said.
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