Aizawl: Mizoram bids farewell to one of its most beloved musical icons, Vanhlupuii, who passed away on Saturday after battling illness, with a stroke being a major contributing factor. The renowned singer, hailed as the singing sensation of Mizoram, was 77 years old at the time of her passing. Her demise marks the end of an era in Mizoram’s musical landscape, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.
Vanhlupuii held a special place in the hearts of the people of Mizoram, not only for her extraordinary talent but also for her contributions to the cultural heritage of the state. Born into a family deeply rooted in music, she was the daughter of the legendary Mizo composer Vankhama and was one among 14 siblings. From a tender age of 4, Vanhlupuii captivated audiences with her mesmerizing voice, enchanting crowds with her performances on stage.
Her journey through the tumultuous years of Mizoram’s history, particularly during the MNF’s independence movement, showcased the resilience and power of music in times of adversity. In an article she penned for the India Post, Vanhlupuii eloquently expressed the intrinsic connection between the Mizo community and music, highlighting how music served as a source of solace and unity during challenging times.
Despite the upheavals of the underground movement, Vanhlupuii remained steadfast in her dedication to music, contributing to its flourishing despite the constraints imposed by circumstances. She played a pivotal role in nurturing emerging talents and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Mizoram both within the state and beyond its borders.
She wrote of music during the independence movement saying, “The traumatic underground movement however, failed to check the progress of the Mizo world of music. While in Shillong, we continued to hold the banner high while our counterparts in Aizawl, despite the constraints, continued to organize the occasional musical concerts. New singing talents emerged such as Siampuii Sailo, Vanlalruati and Lalsangzuali Sailo whose contributions to the world of music still continue to be acknowledged till today. During this time, great strides were made not only in singing but in the composing of many songs as well. Progress was to be seen in the singing of western songs as well, besides the fact that Mizo bands were improving in their handling of instruments such as the drum and guitar. Parallel to this, traditional songs of bereavement and lamentation sung with feeling and deep emotion, became very popular with the public as it contributed to assuaging and soothing the nostalgia, loneliness and sad depression brought on by the trouble of 1966, to many a parent and family.”
Vanhlupuii’s achievements extended beyond the realm of music. She was the first woman from Mizoram to earn a Bachelor of Commerce degree and played a significant role in the founding of Central High School in Aizawl alongside B Lalzela. Her illustrious career with All India Radio (AIR) commenced in 1957, eventually earning her the prestigious title of Top Grade Artist.
Throughout her career, Vanhlupuii garnered numerous accolades and awards for her exceptional contributions to music, including the LG Trophy in 1980, the Jyoty Prasad Agarwal Award for North East Outstanding Artist in 1978, and the Lelte Weekly Lifetime Achievement Award, among others. Her versatility as a singer spanned various genres, and she left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide with her performances in Mizoram, in various pars of India and the world.
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As Mizoram mourns the loss of Vanhlupuii, her legacy lives on through her timeless music and enduring impact on the cultural fabric of the state. Her contributions to the world of music will be remembered and celebrated, ensuring that her spirit continues to inspire future generations of musicians in Mizoram and beyond.
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