About Us

 

Welcome to Pangthem India  (Pronounced: ‘pɑ:ŋ-θem’)

I come from a remote yet picturesque village in the hills of Manipur, where skilled women weave traditional shanvaichonvai (attire) on backstrap looms during breaks from working in the paddy fields. These women, including my mother, have long relied on their weaving to support their families. Despite their incredible talent, they still struggle to earn a steady income due to limited market access.

After moving to the city for higher education and work, I returned home over the years, and each visit reminded me of the incredible craftsmanship I had grown up with. A visit in 2020, however, opened my eyes to the pressing need for accessible education in our region—an issue that inspired me to commit to sponsoring local teachers to improve educational opportunities for future generations.

These experiences, along with my passion for handicrafts, led to the creation of Pangthem India. ‘Pangthem’ means “handiwork” in Tangkhul, my mother tongue. What started as a project dedicated to preserving backstrap loom-woven items has since grown to offer a wide range of handcrafted products, each reflecting the dedication and skill of the women behind them. Though I am the sole person behind this venture today, my commitment to creating sustainable employment for rural women remains unwavering.

Through Pangthem India, I aim to provide a platform where women can earn from their own homes, empowering them to improve their socioeconomic status. Our production methods are eco-friendly, and every product is crafted with love and care, connecting my home to yours. Thank you for being part of this journey and supporting the art of handmade goods.

Every piece tells a story—one that I am honored to share with you.