“The Laiphadibi” is a short story set in Manipur, India, revolving around three sisters named Chanchan, Leina, and Macha. The family had bought land and built a prosperous shop. The girls’ mother, Achanba, used to sell Laiphadibis, rag dolls with religious significance, but stopped when she made special ones for her daughters. The girls treasured these dolls and believed they had protective powers. Their neighbors, a Christian family, discouraged their friendship due to religious differences. Despite the warnings, the children secretly played together, shared sweets, and formed a bond. Meanwhile, the girls’ father grew close to another woman from the
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