Neihunuo Sorhie – The weaver from Nagaland known for preserving this indigenous craft

Neihunuo Sorhie is a weaver of linen loom from Nagaland, known for her original artworks. She is also known for protecting this indigenous craft, as she puts efforts to teach the art to new generation. For her contribution to the field of arts, she was honoured with the prestigious Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award in 2023. Started weaving at the age of 4, she had completed 60 years in this field when she was honoured by central government.

Neihunuo Sorhie started learning this art from her mother at the age of 4

Born in 1963, Neihunuo Sorhie belongs to the Angami community and lives with her family in Kohima district. Sorhie learnt the art of weaving from her mother at the age of 4, and by the age of 6 she could weave clothes independently. Later she created her own original art motifs and meticulous details and patterns in traditional weaving. She mentored and trained over 300 young Naga women in the art form, and also teaches handlooms, knitting, and making dry flowers.

She won National Handloom Award in 2007

In her 60-year old career she won many awards in her credit, including National Handloom Award in 2007. She has participated in exhibitions, trade fairs, and melas across India and foreign countries including Myanmar, Yangon, Thailand, Frankfurt, Germany, and Paris. She makes Naga Shawls, mufflers, shoulder bags, wall hanging decoration pieces and many other items.

Sant Kabir Award in 2018, the Balipara Foundation Naturenomics Assam Award 2014 and the State Awards to Mastercraftsmen from the Government of Nagaland in 2001 are other honours received by her.

Neihunuo Sorhie – Some interesting and less-known facts

1. She got the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi twice once in Meghalaya and the second time in Paris before she came to limelight with Padma Shree honours.

2. She met Narendra Modi at leBVM Marais, a leading luxury store in Paris during a five-week demonstration of look skills. She gifted him a handmade scarf and he loved it.