For as long as Hanjabam Radhe Devi, 88, remembers, she was fascinated by the idea of makeovers, especially when it came to garments. Hence, it’s no surprise that at 25, she decided to dedicate her life to making Potloi, a resolve that has resulted in her bagging the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, this year.
“I was extremely nervous when I heard that I have been chosen to receive an award from the Union government. I had never expected to win such an honour. I had to splash some water on my head to compose myself. The first thought I had was of my late ojha (teacher) from whom I inherited the art of making Potloi. I thanked the Almighty for showering his blessings on me,” Radhe Devi, who is locally known as Abok Radhe (grandma), told a portal.
Picture credit: Twitter
However, the road to success wasn’t easy. Married at the age of 15, Radhe Devi, who hails from Wangjing Sorokhaibam Leikai in the Thoubal district of Manipur, was marred by the responsibilities of the household, and, briefly, give up on her interests. However, as the family struggled to make ends meet, Thounaojam Priyosakhi, a woman in Rade Devi’s neighbourhood, asked her to lend a hand in Potloi dressing as an apprentice. This was her turning point.
After having learnt the craft, she kick-started her own business at 30. Almost six decades later, her hard work has paid off.
What is Potloi?
It is the traditional bridalwear for a majority of Meitei Hindu women in Manipur. It was reportedly introduced by Maharaj Bhaigyachandra (1769-1798) as part of Manipur’s classical dance presentation, Ras-Leela. It is cylindrical in shape, dotted with embellishments, and worn around the waist. Potloi is traditionally worn by the gopis during Ras-Leela. Over time, it has come to be used as bridalwear for the Hindu-Meitei wedding.
Picture credit: Nepolean Leitongbam/Instagram
Besides Potloi, Radhe Devi also spends her time making traditional dolls and attire for religious purposes.