Ima Keithel Or Mothers Market: World's Largest Women-Run Market

Context

Recently, at the 75th Republic Day parade, Manipur’s tableau showcased its Ima Keithel, also known as the “Mother’s Market”.

About Ima Keithel Manipur: Imphal’s 500 YO World’s Largest All-Women Market

Manipur’s Ima Keithel or “Mother’s Market”, a 500-year-old market, the one and only in the world run entirely by women. Ima Keithel is also hailed as the heart and soul of Manipur’s capital, Imphal, standing as a living testament to the region’s rich heritage. The women-run market in Manipur’s Imphal serves as a classic example of “Nari Shakti,” where women’s central role in socio-economic activities drives the nation’s economic development.

Women Centric Market: It is the world’s largest women-run market, comprising 5,000 stalls spread across three multi-story buildings.
Illustration of Nari Shakti: It has been a symbol of women’s empowerment and resilience in commerce and culture for centuries.
Division of Market: The market is divided into two sections:
- Western side is called “Ima Keithel”: It is where the majority of the vendors sell fresh produce.
- Eastern side is called “Ima Market”: It is where vendors sell textiles, handicrafts, and other goods.
Social and Cultural Exchange: The vendors are mostly women, and they come from different ethnic groups and backgrounds.
- The market is a melting pot of cultures, and it is a place where people from different communities come together to celebrate their diversity.

Significance of Ima Keithel Market

Aspects	Description
History and Origin	The market was established in the 16th century AD. It has evolved from a traditional barter system to a formal market setup. Its existence is deeply intertwined with the socio-political history of Manipur. Role in Resistance Movements: Ima Keithel was at the center of women-led protests against British colonial policies in the early 20th century.
Structure of Market	It has three large buildings. Leimarel Shidabi Ima, or Purana Bazar: It is the oldest and largest structure in the complex. It has a small Meitei shrine of Keithel Leirembi and her male consort, Leiramba. Keithel Lairembi is one of the significant goddesses in ancient Meitei mythology, who is believed to be the guardian of the market and the womenfolk. Emoinu Ima Keithel, or Laxmi Bazar: It is the smallest structure in the complex. Phouibee Ima Keithel, or the New Market: It mainly sells handloom items, especially Meitei traditional clothes, that includes various phaneks, sarees, and inaphi.
Economic Impact	Socio-Economic Growth: The market is a major source of sustenance for the households in the villages and is one of the primary markets that helped stimulate the local economy. Decentralised Credit System: The market has a credit system whereby traders can borrow money to purchase goods and repay later. Traditional Crafts: It is renowned for its exquisite handloom textiles and artisanal products, each telling a story of ancestral skill and cultural pride. Diverse Products: The market is known for a wide array of products, including traditional Manipuri attire, handloom and handicrafts, local produce, and daily essentials.
Cultural Exchange	It acts as a cultural exchange hub, where people from various parts of the state and beyond come together. The market offer traditional clothing like Phanek and Leiroom, and local culinary delights.

Also Read: 75th Republic Day: Gallantry Award Winners

Conclusion

Ima Keithel is a living museum of Manipur’s culture and a testament to the indomitable spirit of its women. It stands as a unique example of female entrepreneurship and cultural preservation.

Must Read
NCERT Notes For UPSC	UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Blogs	UPSC Daily Editorials
Daily Current Affairs Quiz	Daily Main Answer Writing
UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers	UPSC Test Series 2024

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Ima Keithel FAQs

Ima Keithel is a 500-year-old market in Imphal, run entirely by women, unique worldwide.

It's divided into 'Ima Keithel' for produce and 'Ima Market' for textiles and handicrafts.

Established in the 16th century, it was central to anti-British protests in early 20th century Manipur.

It's crucial for socio-economic growth, offering traditional crafts and a decentralized credit system.

It's a cultural hub, showcasing Manipuri attire, crafts, and uniting diverse ethnic groups.

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Ima Keithel or Mothers Market: World’s Largest Women-Run Market

Context

About Ima Keithel Manipur: Imphal’s 500 YO World’s Largest All-Women Market

Significance of Ima Keithel Market

Conclusion

Ima Keithel FAQs

What is Ima Keithel and why is it unique?

How is Ima Keithel divided and what is sold there?

What is the historical significance of Ima Keithel?

What economic role does Ima Keithel play in Manipur?

How does Ima Keithel contribute to cultural exchange?

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