Imphal, Aug. 8 -- President Droupadi Murmu conferred the National Handloom Award on Takhellambam Rani Devi of Kakching Khunou Awang Keithel Leikai in Manipur's Kakching district on August 7, marking the 12th National Handloom Day.

Rani Devi was recognised in the women weavers category for her expertise in Shaphee Lanphee in Silk Innaphi, a contemporary adaptation of the traditional Manipuri textile.

She was among 22 master weavers, artisans, designers and representatives of organisations selected from across the country for the Sant Kabir Handloom Awards and National Handloom Awards. The honours recognise contributions to preserving and promoting India's traditional handloom heritage.

Shaphee Lanphee is a traditional black-and-red hand...