Leichan Ayekpam Growing up in Manipur, my childhood was steeped in the rich traditions and vibrant rituals of Manipuri Hinduism. Our festivals were a blend of joy, spirituality, and community, with each celebration deeply rooted in our unique cultural heritage. The serene temples, the rhythmic chants (Sankirtana), and the age-old customs made me proud of …
The Tale of Arunachal: Cultural Distortion and Appropriation
Nyima Tarung Tana Ah, Arunachal Pradesh, the land where the sun kisses the mountains first, where the rivers sing ancient songs, and where every stone has a story. As an Apatani-Monpa Buddhist, let me share with you a tale, poetic yet piercing, of how our vibrant culture is being slowly smothered by the silken shroud …
“Axone” and the Question of Racism in India
Veewon Thokchom With the release of the Bollywood movie “Axone” directed by Nicholas Kharkonger, a debate on racism has been ignited. Though the movie could not have been worse than it is when it comes to racism, it at least has sparked off a discourse on racism faced by “Northeast” yellow people in Indian …
The indigenous people are used to sharing, not distancing: Santa Khurai
Santa Khurai (SAVARI and Round Table India are doing a series on the Coronavirus pandemic) Santa KhuraiPhoto credit: Sonia Nepram Round Table India: Thanks for taking time, Santa. Could you share what is the situation in Imphal right now around the COVID-19 crisis? Santa Khurai: The situation has become much worse. The government acted …
Reading India in the time of protest!
Thongam Bipin Time and again we have seen how India unfolds itself to its margin during protests. It is violent and oppressive. It has made itself clear through its actions that the state machinery is not for the protection of the public but to protect the government from the public. The public is increasingly …
An Enquiry Beyond Citizenship Amendment Bill
Veewon Thokchom The question of migrant population in the “Northeast” – Land of the rising sun, Land of festivals, Scotland of the East, Jewel of India – has always remained elusive in the popular discourse of the country, just as the question of occupation in Kashmir – a Paradise on Earth. These artfully contrived …