Nupilal

Nupi Lal, translating to “women’s war” in Manipuri, marks a significant chapter in the history of Manipuri women, signifying the dawn of economic and political reforms in early 1940s Manipur. Originating in 1939, it began as a protest led by Manipuri women against the oppressive economic and administrative policies enforced by the Manipur Maharaja and Mr. Gimson, the Political Agent representing the British Government (1933-1945) in Manipur. As it unfolded, Nupi Lal evolved into a broader movement advocating for constitutional and administrative changes in the region.

The Nupi Lan, or Manipuri women’s movement of 1939, arose in response to the state Maharaja’s trade policies, which prioritized exports despite limited food grain production. When excessive rain led to a drastic decrease in rice production and Marwari monopolies continued unchecked rice exports, the price of rice skyrocketed, making trade unsustainable for locals. It was the women, deeply engaged in market activities and known for their assertiveness, who spearheaded the agitation. Their demands initially centered on banning rice exports but later expanded to encompass broader changes to the Durbar and administrative structures. Thus, what began as a protest against the Maharaja’s rice policies and Marwari monopolies eventually transformed into a movement advocating for constitutional, political, and economic reforms in Manipur, ultimately paving the way for the emergence of Irabot and his followers as prominent leaders.