UNDERSTANDING MEITEI WOMEN’S STATUS IN A DISTURBED SOCIETY: AN ANTHROPOLOGICAL STUDY OF GENDER DYNAMICS IN MANIPUR

Abstract [English]

This paper analyses the gender dynamics in Manipur from an anthropological perspective. The cultural and traditional practices narrated the gender roles and how they stigmatized the women who went against the set norms. The chapter investigates the hierarchy among women that dictates their freedom and vulnerability in society. Their age groups ranging from a small girl to a maiden, maiden to womanhood, and womanhood to motherhood exercise different statuses in society. In addition to this, social stigmas and taboos are closely linked with these divisions. The woman’s suppressed sexuality and the taboo behind it also contribute to the structure of the role of women in Manipur. Meitei women’s participation in the political space is also visible but rather as the foot soldiers who propagate the manifesto of the male MP or MLA or any contesting candidate. Women have a more liberated lifestyle within Meitei society, but, still, it is an activity based on custom. While the patriarchy in this society may be played as soft or even libertarian, women must still function within their prescribed lanes. Yet, the socio-political turbulence has hardened women in Manipur. Further, the distinction between the idea of a woman and a mother highlights the limitation of the existing women’s heroic narrative. The mother, who is empowered and honoured, experiences a different narrative as opposed to the subjugated young woman. Therefore, the gender dynamics in Manipur are deeply intertwined with the socio-cultural practices and the political instability of the state. This study emphasizes the need for a critical reformation of gender roles, judicial safeguards, and societal norms to facilitate a more inclusive and equitable structure for all women in Manipur, irrespective of age and class.