Imphal, Manipur — In the vibrant cultural tapestry of Manipur, few names shine as brightly as Gurumayum Memcha Devi. A master artisan and cultural torchbearer, she has emerged as one of the foremost custodians of Manipuri traditional costume-making. Her painstaking work, rooted in deep respect for heritage and driven by an unwavering passion, has not only earned her accolades from across the country but also redefined the landscape of traditional arts in the region. This year, her dedication was recognized on multiple prestigious platforms, marking a triumphant moment not only for Memcha Devi but for the entire Manipuri cultural fraternity.

In 2025, Gurumayum Memcha Devi was conferred with the Best Manipuri Traditional Custom Maker Female Award, an honor that cements her position as a leading figure in the preservation and promotion of Manipuri attire. Known for her ability to interweave age-old techniques with nuanced artistic vision, her creations are as much cultural artifacts as they are visual poetry. Further acknowledging her influence, the Nelson Mandela Inspired Award 2025 was presented to her by Famous People India World. This honor resonates beyond regional borders, celebrating her role in upholding indigenous knowledge and craftsmanship in a world increasingly dominated by mass production and cultural homogenization. Adding to this list of distinctions, she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the Sahara Charitable Trust in 2025, an academic recognition of her outstanding contributions to the cultural sphere.

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Behind Memcha Devi’s success is a lineage steeped in creativity and tradition. Born into the distinguished Gurumayum family, she inherited a legacy of artistic and technical excellence. Her father, the late Gurumayum Gourachandra Sharma, and her mother, Gurumayum (O) Bino Devi, laid the foundation of discipline and artistry in their children. Her eldest brother, Gurumayum Chaobisana Sharma, is a light designer and a self-employed karigor at the Shri Shri Govindajee temple, blending aesthetics with spiritual practice. Her sister, Gurumayum Sumadori Devi, is deeply involved in handloom and handicrafts, a field closely tied to Memcha’s own. Another brother, Gurumayum Imotomba Sharma, who studied at the National School of Drama, brings his expertise in stage lighting and design to the family’s creative endeavors. The youngest brother, Gurumayum Premjit Sharma, continues the tradition by working closely with Memcha, assisting her in the meticulous world of traditional costume-making.

Her residence in Wangkhei Lourembam Leirak is more than just a home—it is a living repository of Manipuri culture. The air is often filled with the sounds of looms at work, conversations about design, and the steady rhythm of hands shaping fabric into garments that tell stories of a proud civilization. Here, Memcha Devi doesn’t just make costumes—she weaves history, identity, and artistry into every piece.

In a time when the world risks losing touch with its roots, individuals like Gurumayum Memcha Devi stand as guiding lights. Her work transcends fabric and form, embodying the spirit of a people and the essence of a tradition that refuses to fade. As Manipur celebrates her achievements, the rest of the country is reminded of the richness of India’s cultural diversity and the unsung heroes who labor tirelessly to keep it alive.