Manipur artisan blends culture and craft to empower women

ANI May 16, 2025 296 views

Pamchuiwon Kashak Hungyo turned her childhood struggles into a mission to preserve Tangkhul Naga heritage through handmade jewellery. Her brand Tangkhul Beads provides economic opportunities for local women while fighting cultural erosion. Despite pandemic setbacks, she launched her business with a vision to reconnect youth with their roots. Her story proves tradition can thrive when transformed into sustainable livelihoods.

"Our traditional outfits reflect our identity... With Tangkhul Beads, I aspire to refocus attention on our heritage." – Pamchuiwon Kashak Hungyo
Kamjong, May 16: In the secluded hills of Kamjong district, Manipur, 31-year-old Pamchuiwon Kashak Hungyo is intertwining threads of culture, resilience, and empowerment.

Key Points

1

Self-taught artisan revives Tangkhul Naga jewellery traditions

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Creates jobs for women in Kamjong district

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Combats cultural erosion from foreign fashion trends

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Overcame pandemic challenges to launch Tangkhul Beads

An artisan without any formal education, Pamchuiwon's path began in 2016 as a simple pastime of crafting earrings and necklaces influenced by her Tangkhul Naga roots.

Today, it has evolved into Tangkhul Beads, a flourishing enterprise that revitalises traditional craftsmanship while empowering young women within her community.

Growing up in a farming household as the second of eleven children, Pamchuiwon had limited resources while growing up. "We could hardly afford clothes or jewellery," she remembers. "So, I learned to create them myself." Her self-taught abilities addressed a need, as traditional Tangkhul adornments, particularly bridal pieces, are often costly and hard to find.

Even with the obstacles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Pamchuiwon's resolve remained strong. In October 2024, she formally introduced Tangkhul Beads, a brand deeply rooted in cultural pride. "Our traditional outfits reflect our identity," she explains. "Unfortunately, Western and Korean fashion trends are drawing the younger generation away from their heritage. With Tangkhul Beads, I aspire to refocus attention on our identity."

Her creations, from Kongsang necklaces to Khommasin bridal ornaments, are not merely accessories; they embody a community's spirit, its history, and its resilience. The initiative has also become a source of local employment, particularly for women striving for financial independence and a renewed sense of purpose.

As peace and progress gradually return to Manipur, artisans like Pamchuiwon are not only safeguarding their culture; they are turning it into a source of opportunity. Through her efforts, she is aiding her community in reclaiming pride in its traditions, demonstrating that even amidst a transforming world, heritage can continue to radiate vibrantly.

Pamchuiwon's journey exemplifies the power of passion and determination to uplift communities. Her work not only conserves tradition but also fosters hope, pride, and opportunities for the women of Manipur.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.
What an inspiring story! 🇮🇳 It's heartwarming to see traditional crafts being preserved while creating economic opportunities. More power to Pamchuiwon and the women of Manipur. We need such initiatives across all northeastern states to showcase India's diverse cultural heritage.
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Priya M.
As someone who loves ethnic jewelry, I'd love to see Tangkhul Beads available online! The government should help artisans like Pamchuiwon with e-commerce platforms. Traditional crafts deserve a wider market beyond local communities.
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Arjun S.
While I appreciate the cultural preservation aspect, I wonder if there's enough focus on modernizing designs to appeal to younger generations. Maybe fusion pieces combining traditional motifs with contemporary styles could be explored?
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Neha P.
This is exactly why we need more coverage of positive stories from the Northeast! For too long, these regions have been associated only with conflicts. Kudos to this entrepreneur for showing the real spirit of Manipur ✨
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Sanjay T.
The government's Startup India initiative should identify and support such grassroots entrepreneurs. Imagine the impact if every village had a Pamchuiwon creating jobs while preserving culture!
M
Meena R.
As an Indian woman, I'm so proud to read this! From making jewelry for herself to empowering other women - what a journey. This shows how small beginnings can create big changes. More power to her! 💪

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Tags:
Manipur artisans Tangkhul Naga culture women empowerment traditional jewellery Pamchuiwon Kashak Hungyo