Monipuri Ethnic Group

The Monipuri ethnic group is a small, distinctive community found in India and Bangladesh, originally from the Indian state of Manipur. Due to social and political upheavals, as well as wars in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, many Monipuri migrated to other parts of India and Bangladesh. Today, a significant number reside in the Sylhet district of Bangladesh. Manipuris have their own unique language, script, and rich cultural heritage, including a notable reputation for weaving.

Traditional Monipuri Clothing and the Evolution of Sarees

Historically, the traditional dress of Monipuri women was not the saree, but garments like the lahing or fanek, worn with a patch at the waist. The blouse, called furit, and a veil known as fitup bainafi, complete their traditional attire. A later, more refined version of this veil, the Mairangfi, was created for a princess, and it eventually inspired the modern Manipuri saree collection.

Birth of Monipuri Saree Weaving in Bangladesh

In the early 1990s, Monipuri weavers began creating sarees, drawing inspiration from the design of the Mairangfi veil, and focusing on a commercial market. The intricate weaving and unique color combinations quickly gained popularity, not only in Bangladesh but abroad as well. The main feature of Monipuri sarees is the darker borders contrasted with lighter ground colors, often adorned with temple motifs. The intricate handwoven designs ensure that no two sarees are exactly alike.

Check out the collection of traditional Manipuri sarees at a glance

Modern Appeal and Affordability of Monipuri Sarees

Manipuri sarees have garnered attention due to their vibrant colors and affordability. These sarees, priced between 1200 to 7,000 taka depending on the yarn and design, offer a more accessible alternative to traditional Jamdani or muslin sarees. With the rise in demand, however, the limited import of yarn has caused prices to climb. The bright colors are also believed to uplift mood, making these sarees particularly popular among modern, fashion-conscious women who face the daily stresses of professional and family life.

Weaving Techniques and Product Range

The weaving process of Manipuri sarees bears similarities to that of Bangladesh’s famed Jamdani sarees, which have been recognized by UNESCO. The entire process is done by hand, using traditional spinning wheels to prepare the yarn. Besides sarees, Manipuri artisans also produce a variety of textiles, including fanek, shawls, veils, three-piece outfits, towels, punjabis, bed sheets, and even beautifully embroidered nakshikantha and bakul kantha.

Manipuri Handwoven Textiles in Sylhet

Sylhet is home to numerous shops selling Monipuri handwoven textiles, drawing in both locals and tourists. These shops are particularly popular among Sylheti expatriates, who are helping to spread the popularity of Monipuri sarees worldwide. Moulvibazar district, where many Manipuris reside, is known for its active weaving communities. Visitors can observe the weavers’ traditional methods and lifestyle, a living testament to the rich cultural legacy of Manipuri weaving.

Cultural and Historical Significance of Manipuri Weaving

Manipuri weaving is not only a craft but also a key part of Bangladesh’s heritage. The weaving tradition in the country is deeply intertwined with its cultural history, as documented by famous travelers like Ibn Battuta and Hiuen Tsang. The Monipuri weaving industry in Sylhet continues to be a major contributor to Bangladesh’s cottage and folk industries, preserving the nation’s thousand-year-old tradition of textile craftsmanship.

Care of Sylheti Monipuri Saree

The aesthetics of weaving is the main feature of Manipuri sarees. The popularity of this soft and beautiful saree is always high among saree lovers. But if not taken care of in the right way, the mesh weave saree can get damaged. Know the do’s and don’ts of Manipuri saree care.

• Manipuri sarees should be cleaned carefully. Soak with mild detergent or liquid soap for 15 to 20 minutes before washing. Do not soak for long.
• Do not wash the Manipuri saree. Any type of brush should also not be used.
• After washing, put starch or airroot on the saree. If the color of the saree is dark, mix it with arrowroot/made blue and filter it. Use 80 to 100 grams of arrowroot for each sari.
• Straighten the wet saree while ironing. Otherwise the shape of the saree may be spoiled.
• Iron when dry.

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