No words to define my happiness, says Manipur weaver Wahengbam Shaya after winning Sant Kabir Award

Manipur's Wahengbam Shaya Devi has been honored with the Sant Kabir Award 2023, a prestigious recognition given to outstanding weavers across India. Shaya is the only artisan from the North East to receive this award this year.

Born in 1967 in Wangkhei Lourembam Leirak, Imphal East district, Shaya has dedicated over 40 years to the art of weaving. Expressing her overwhelming joy, Shaya said, “No words can define my happiness. Seeing my name on the Sant Kabir Award list is incredibly emotional. The hardships and challenges I have faced are now compensated by this recognition. It is a moment of motivation and encouragement.”

Shaya is renowned for her traditional Manipuri shawls, or Inaphee, which she crafts with both traditional and original designs. “While I sometimes replicate age-old designs with historical significance, I also introduce many of my own motifs,” she explained. Her creations include designs like Satra, Phiruk, Sarong Tomthil, Siroi Lily, Choubi Mapal, and Kundo, all inspired by Manipuri culture and tradition.

Her dedication to preserving the handloom heritage has already been acknowledged with previous State Merit Certificates and National Awards. Shaya’s selection as the second recipient of the Sant Kabir Award from Manipur reflects her unwavering commitment to her craft. “In my first attempt, I wasn’t selected, but I remained hopeful and confident that I would be recognized this time,” she added.

Shaya, who weaves designs such as Ngathokpa Phee, Sarong Phee, and Khoi Charong Inaphee, faced significant challenges due to the ongoing conflict affecting her economy. Despite these difficulties, she managed to support her workers and maintain her operations. “Weaving may not be highly profitable, but many women in the state rely on it as their primary occupation,” Shaya noted. She expressed a strong desire to provide financial support to genuine weavers in Manipur.