Lourembam Bino Devi
Mrs. L. Bino Devi Pipli Kala, a woman from Manipur, who has been awarded the Padma Shri for the arts. Mrs. L. Bino Devi, the oldest expert in the “Leeba” method of Pipli Art, has dedicated the last 53 years to preserving this traditional treasure.
Who is Lourembam Bino Devi ?
In the Meitei language, the appliqué art of Manipur known as Leeba is practiced and popularised by Lourembam Bino Devi (born 1 March 1944). The traditional Manipuri bolster pillow’s ornate circular appliqué art element, Monmai, which covers both ends, is made using the Leeba art. At “Phiribi Loishang,” a residence for maintaining clothing used by royalty and goddesses, Leeba was performed in the past.
The Leeba design method was primarily used in the creation of the royals’ clothing and footwear. Bino Devi has dedicated her life to the practice of this art form and the attempt to restore it by teaching younger generations of eager ladies. She has been delivering this training in association with the Imphal-based nonprofit organization Heritage Foundation of Mankind. Additionally, she has led numerous workshops in Imphal and other locations throughout India.
