Exploring the Life of Thoibi Devi (1920-1996), A Communist Activist/Writer

With the introduction of modern education in Manipur, three pioneer Meetei women writers of profound influence emerged in the 1960s. Often identified as the three legs of an iron tripod (yotsabi), they are Thoibi Devi (1920-1996), M.K Binodini (1922-2011) and Khaidem Pramodini (1924-2006). This essay enters the life of Thoibi Devi to understand how her personal experience in the existing social and political condition of Manipur led to her political leanings and her understanding of women’s condition, which she reflects in her writings. This biography of Thoibi Devi opens a window to the conservative Meetei Hindu society and the dogmatic religious rule of Brahma Sabha in Manipur. It also highlights Thoibi Devi’s contribution to the literary and cultural development in Manipur.