India’s first Miss Universe and actor Sushmita Sen on Wednesday expressed fascination for Manipuri traditional wear and lauded how people of Manipur preserve the ancentral handloom and handicraft legacy.
Sushmita arrived in Imphal to take part in the 11th edition of Manipur Sangai Festival as a showstopper for designer Robert Naorem’s ramp show on Wednesday.
Being invited for the Sangai Festival is a great privilege, Sushmita, who won India’s first Miss Universe title in 1994, said while addressing mediapersons before the show.
Addressing the media at Hotel Imphal before the show, the former Miss Universe said that it is surprising to see how people maintain its unique motif and design of the traditional dress that was handed down by the forefathers.
The uniqueness of Manipuri traditional attire would attract people from other places, she said, adding that through handloom and handicraft, Manipur can be promoted far and wide.
“This is not the first time I am wearing a Manipuri dress ‘Rani Phee and Phanek’. I love to wear this tradition a lot so I don’t feel any kind of discomfort. Artisans of Manipur who are into this handloom and handicraft are amazing”, Sushmita said.
Assuring that she will continue to support people of Manipur and Northeast in promotion of its rich culture and tradition, she said the love and affection along with the beautiful culture, tradition and taste of Manipuri cuisine are something which she will take back as a memory from the state.
Referring to some of the internationally known personalities of Manipur like Robert Naorem and Mary Kom, she said that people of Northeast have a lot of potential. Recognising their talent and hardwork are also the means to promote North East India in the rest of the country, she said.
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