Ima Keithel, also known as Mother's Market, is a historic all-women market located in Imphal, the capital city of Manipur in northeastern India. The market has a rich history and has been in existence for over 500 years. It is considered one of the largest women-run markets in Asia and attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world.
Ima Keithel
The market is run entirely by women, and it is believed that the market was started by a group of women who wanted to earn a living for themselves and their families. The market has played an important role in the socioeconomic development of the state and has become an important cultural institution. The women who run the market are known for their entrepreneurship, and the market has become a symbol of women's empowerment in Manipur.
Ima Keithel is known for its vibrant atmosphere and the wide range of goods that are sold here. From traditional handloom products to modern fashion items, the market has something for everyone. The market is divided into different sections, each specializing in a particular product. Some of the popular sections include the fish market, the vegetable market, and the handloom section.
The market has faced many challenges over the years, including natural disasters and political unrest. However, the women who run the market have shown remarkable resilience and have continued to keep the market running. Ima Keithel is not just a market, but a symbol of the strength and resilience of Manipuri women.
Top 3 Places to Visit in Ima Keithel
Handloom section: The handloom section of Ima Keithel is a must-visit for anyone interested in traditional textiles. The section is run entirely by women weavers who specialize in creating beautiful Manipuri fabrics. Visitors can watch the weavers at work and purchase unique handwoven products such as shawls, scarves, and traditional clothing.
Fish market: The fish market at Ima Keithel is one of the busiest sections of the market. Here, visitors can find a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood, including popular local varieties such as ngari, chak-hao kheer, and chamthong. The market is known for its lively atmosphere and the friendly vendors who are always happy to engage in conversation.
Vegetable market: The vegetable market at Ima Keithel is a great place to sample fresh local produce. Visitors can find a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, many of which are grown locally. The market is known for its colorful displays and the friendly vendors who are happy to share information about the different types of produce available. Visitors can also purchase traditional spices and herbs used in Manipuri cuisine.
Handloom section
The Handloom section of Ima Keithel is a unique and fascinating place to visit, especially for those interested in traditional textiles. It is one of the busiest sections of the market and is run entirely by women weavers who specialize in creating beautiful Manipuri fabrics. The weavers use traditional techniques and tools to create unique and intricate designs that have been passed down through generations.
Visitors to the Handloom section can watch the weavers at work and see the process of making the fabrics from start to finish. The weavers work tirelessly at their looms, using their hands and feet to create beautiful patterns and designs. Visitors can also see the different types of looms used, including the backstrap loom, which is commonly used in Manipur.
The fabrics created in the Handloom section are of exceptional quality, and visitors can purchase a wide range of products, including shawls, scarves, bags, and traditional clothing. The fabrics are made from natural fibers such as silk and cotton, which are sourced locally. The colors used in the fabrics are also derived from natural sources, such as plants and flowers, which gives them a unique and vibrant quality.
The Handloom section is not just a place to purchase textiles but also a cultural institution that showcases the rich history and tradition of Manipuri weaving. The section is run entirely by women, which is a testament to the strength and resilience of Manipuri women. The Handloom section is a must-visit for anyone interested in traditional textiles and the unique cultural heritage of Manipur.
Fish market
The Fish market at Ima Keithel is one of the busiest and most vibrant sections of the market. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the local food culture and getting a glimpse of the daily life of Manipuri people. The market is filled with the freshest and most diverse seafood, ranging from freshwater fish, river crabs, and shellfish to saltwater fish like prawns and lobsters.
The fish vendors at Ima Keithel are primarily women who are knowledgeable about the different types of fish and seafood available. They are also very friendly and always willing to engage in conversations with visitors. The vendors take pride in their products and showcase them in colorful and neatly arranged displays.
The fish sold in the market are often prepared in unique and delicious ways, reflecting the local cuisine. Visitors can sample popular local dishes like Chamthong, which is a traditional fish stew, or Chak-hao Kheer, a dessert made with black rice and milk, which has a unique and rich flavor.
The Fish market at Ima Keithel is not just a place to purchase seafood but also a cultural institution that reflects the importance of fishing in Manipuri culture. The market has become an integral part of the daily life of Manipuri people, and visiting the market is an excellent way to experience the local food culture and connect with the people of Manipur.
Vegetable market
The Vegetable market at Ima Keithel is a bustling and colorful section of the market that showcases the vibrant local produce of Manipur. The market is a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the local food culture and getting a glimpse of the daily life of Manipuri people. The market is filled with a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, many of which are grown locally in the fertile valleys and hills of Manipur.
The vegetable vendors at Ima Keithel are primarily women who are knowledgeable about the different types of produce available. They are also very friendly and always willing to engage in conversations with visitors. The vendors take pride in their products and showcase them in colorful and neatly arranged displays.
Visitors to the Vegetable market can find a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, ranging from popular local varieties like Soibum, a type of fermented bamboo shoot, to exotic fruits like passion fruit and persimmon. The market also has a wide selection of traditional spices and herbs used in Manipuri cuisine, such as ginger, garlic, and turmeric.
The Vegetable market at Ima Keithel is not just a place to purchase produce but also a cultural institution that reflects the importance of agriculture in Manipuri culture. The market has become an integral part of the daily life of Manipuri people, and visiting the market is an excellent way to experience the local food culture and connect with the people of Manipur.
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