Lukanand wears Linthoingambi's "last gaze" on jacket at 15th Mister International

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Oct 21: Hijam Linthoingambi's "last gaze" that pierced and shattered the hearts of millions became the focus of the grand finale of the 15th Mister International pageant in the Philippines when Lukanand wore a designer jacket that had a pair of eyes printed on it.
In the presence of representatives from various Nations, and a host of global media, Lukanand Kshetrimayum, reigning Mister International 2022, was wearing the jacket that had the eyes of Hijam Linthoingambi printed on the back.
As Lukanand walked the ramp wearing the jacket, the pair of eyes, which many dubbed as the "last gaze of the teen" before she was murdered, pierced through the hearts of the thousands in the event and raised awareness about the conflict that has Manipur burning.
Notably, Hijam Linthoingambi was only 17 when she was murdered.
Hijam Linthoingambi and Phijam Hemanjit (20) went missing on July 6.
Months later, in September last week, their photographs surfaced online. While one of the photographs shows the two teens alive in captivity of armed Kuki men, the other photograph shows their bodies lying on the ground.
During the grand finale of the 15th Edition of Mister International pageant held at Baguio, Cordillera Hall, Baguio Country Club, Baguio, Philippines yesterday, Lukanand initiated a Global Awareness program as a part of the event, and raised awareness about the turmoil facing Manipur and threats from narco-terrorism.
Baguio-based international fashion designer King George created the striking ensemble that bore the teenager's gaze.