Bishnupriya Manipuris in Globalisation period

By RK Rishikesh Sinha

It’s been decades, we have entered into the period of globalisation and liberalisation. The opening of the economy, the advancement of technology, and the role of MNCs, with its buoyant force have pushed us into a new period i.e., into a new way of ‘life’.

To say that globalisation and liberalisation which has challenged the status of ‘nationhood’ doesn’t have any impact on society especially a small community like Bishnupriya Manipuri, is unthinkable. It definitely spells its effect upon us. For a Bishnupriya Manipuri, the question that arises is: Is liberalisation and globalisation a danger or a boon?

The World is flat

History teaches us, those who (community or society) aligned with the changing time and grabbed opportunities has advanced, and gave a fillip identity to themselves. Today, we identify these communities or societies as modern, strong, and with ‘identity’ of their own. They literally followed the idiom: Make hay while the sun shines.

Yes, we’re living in a very exciting time — flat and boundary-less 21st century. More or less, we all are sailing in the same boat. Competition, challenges, and opportunities are alike. But, how we individually encash it and create collective gain for the society and the community is a million-dollar question. The present generation will never ever get this golden opportunity that has come to our door. Since there is no point in crying over the spilled milk.

Matter of Notion

In the past, it took a generation or more than a generation to witness a societal change. That was the time. But, in the present time of globalisation, our perception about society or the change in the society takes place in years. Decades ago, a Bishnupriya Manipuri person entering into a tea shop owned by a Muslim to quench his cha thirst, used to become the talk of the town. Now, it is no more.

Nevertheless, we cannot survive by ignoring the changing period and we have to accept it. We have to make a way in the midst of these changes. Definitely, while facing these changes our understanding about us will undergo a change, as a community and as an individual. Every individual has to fight his own fight.

Disclaimer: Views are personal.

The article doesn’t touch whether the changes in the globalisation is right or wrong, or good or bad. Also this article doesn’t come with any solution.