This chapter examines the technological, manufacturing, and design aspects of the few Manipur crafts, describing them within the broader context of their historical evolution and geographical-demographic influences shaping their development by the diverse tribal communities exploiting the abundant natural resources of this state. This chapter also explores the cultural significance of its unique craft varieties characterized by intricate designs and traditional production techniques, embedded with diverse tribal identities and deep-rooted customs. The important textiles discussed include Phanek, Leirumphi, Shaphee Lanphee, Wangkhei Phee, and Moirang Phee along with bamboo, and Kouna handicrafts and their detailed technical specifications emphasizing their craftsmanship, raw materials, and manufacturing techniques. The impact of modernization on traditional designs is also addressed in contemporary markets, reinforcing their importance in both local and global contexts. The challenges faced by Manipur’s handloom and handicraft industry, followed by issues like low production rates, fierce competition from cheap textile imitations, high raw material costs, and exploitation by middlemen are also examined. This chapter describes the role of women playing an important part in the economy via their craft enterprises and the effects of political unrest making economic stability even more difficult to achieve. Traditional crafts that can adapt to new customer needs may be preserved via creative marketing techniques, increased access to resources, and an emphasis on innovation. Holistically, this chapter emphasizes the need for documentation and preservation of Manipuri crafts, which serve not only as economic resources but also as vital expressions of cultural identity.

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Technological, Manufacturing, and Design Aspects of Selected Manipur Handloom Fabrics and Crafts

  • Abhijit Mukherjee,
  • Misti Chandra

摘要

This chapter examines the technological, manufacturing, and design aspects of the few Manipur crafts, describing them within the broader context of their historical evolution and geographical-demographic influences shaping their development by the diverse tribal communities exploiting the abundant natural resources of this state. This chapter also explores the cultural significance of its unique craft varieties characterized by intricate designs and traditional production techniques, embedded with diverse tribal identities and deep-rooted customs. The important textiles discussed include Phanek, Leirumphi, Shaphee Lanphee, Wangkhei Phee, and Moirang Phee along with bamboo, and Kouna handicrafts and their detailed technical specifications emphasizing their craftsmanship, raw materials, and manufacturing techniques. The impact of modernization on traditional designs is also addressed in contemporary markets, reinforcing their importance in both local and global contexts. The challenges faced by Manipur’s handloom and handicraft industry, followed by issues like low production rates, fierce competition from cheap textile imitations, high raw material costs, and exploitation by middlemen are also examined. This chapter describes the role of women playing an important part in the economy via their craft enterprises and the effects of political unrest making economic stability even more difficult to achieve. Traditional crafts that can adapt to new customer needs may be preserved via creative marketing techniques, increased access to resources, and an emphasis on innovation. Holistically, this chapter emphasizes the need for documentation and preservation of Manipuri crafts, which serve not only as economic resources but also as vital expressions of cultural identity.