Two Manipuris from Assam, Bangladesh participating in 4th Meetei Chanu pageant

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Sep 22: With two Manipuris from Assam and Bangladesh participating, the audition for the 4th Meetei Chanu- beauty pageant began today at Sangeet Kala Sangam Hall, Khurai Lamlong, Imphal.
Altogether 50 women including Leiphrakpam Suchona Chanu from Bangladesh and Longjam Rabina Chanu from Assam auditioned for the pageant.
L Suchona is a daughter of social and cultural activist L Ibungohal Shyamal and L (O) Kunjarani Leima of Bhanughas Tetai Gaon, Moulvibazar district, Bangladesh. She is an undergraduate student at Leading University, Sylhet, Bangladesh.
Conveying to media persons that it is her maiden visit to the State, L Suchona said that she is taking part in the 4th Meetei Chanu keeping in mind her fathers love for his roots and culture. Her father is working 'tirelessly to promote Manipuri culture' in Bangladesh, she said.
"Participating in the pageant and my stay in Manipur will provide me new insights into the tradition and culture of Meeteis. There are so many things to learn. I am extremely happy to be here," Suchona said.
"Winning or losing doesn't matter. All I want is to learn about my culture (Meetei), tradition," she added.
Longjam Rabina Chanu hails from Bhatigram, Jaribon in Assam. She is daughter of Rajkumar and Muhini Leima.
Rabina, who is pursuing BCom at Cachar College, lauded the organiser Lainingthou Sanamahee Sana Pung (LSSP) for providing them the platform to represent Manipuri women and 'an opportunity to learn new things'. She also expressed her 'dream' to see more Assam Manipuris participating in the event.
It may be mentioned that the 4th Meetei Chanu will be held on October 20 at Manipur Trade and Expo Centre, Lamboi Khongnangkhong, Imphal.