SOCIO-HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE OF MANIPURI WOMEN IN THE CONTEXT OF MARKET IN MANIPUR

Abstract

India, is a hub of socio-political activism while serving as an important economic centre of activity for the women in the State. The central marketplace is historically known as ‘Khwairamband Keithel’ and is composed of several segments of which the main market is exclusively managed and controlled by women. The division between the sexes is clearly marked where there are separate spaces for the women and the men. Nupi Keithel (women’s market) is exclusively managed by the women, while the Nipa Keithel (men’s market) is reserved for the male vendors. These two spaces are separated from one another by the Nambul River that flows through the heart of Imphal city.