Ukhrul: In a remarkable journey that began with a borrowed Rs 5, Aran Chihui, the proprietor of Chihui Group from Manipur’s Ukhrul district, has recently launched the first digital printing press and book publishing house in Ukhrul.
Aran Chihui’s latest venture, comprising two pioneering business units, Colorbasket (a commercial digital printing press) and Bookbasket (a book publishing unit), was officially inaugurated by Ukhrul Deputy Commissioner Kengoo Zuringla and Tangkhul Naga Long President Sword Vashum on July 25 at the Tangkhul Theological Association compound in Hungpung.
According to Chihui, his new establishment, which involved an investment of Rs 50 lakh in high-end commercial machines, aims to meet local needs while providing international quality standards at competitive prices. The 45-year-old entrepreneur from Khangkhui village expressed confidence in positively impacting the community with the Chihui Group’s 11-year presence in the market.
The Journey of an Entrepreneur
Aran Chihui’s entrepreneurial journey began unexpectedly in his fifth standard when he borrowed Rs 5 from his mother to buy a basketful of plums from a friend’s garden. He resold the plums at Ukhrul headquarters ground, laying the foundation for his future endeavours. “I never thought I would become an entrepreneur. It was not intentional, but God had woven this journey for me,” recalls Aran, the eldest of eight children.
In 2013, after returning from the metro city, Aran and his wife Hangmila launched Community Cafe at Viewland, the first coffee house concept in Ukhrul and Manipur. This café became a hub for musicians and social activists, hosting dialogues and musical concerts on weekends, and nurturing contemporary music bands in Ukhrul. “This café brought people together from the state and beyond. It provided a platform for musicians who had no other place to perform,” said Aran. Many organisations and clubs, such as Chiko Adventures and Araang League, were also born from this café.
Despite the cafe’s success, Aran had to close it in early 2018 due to his mother’s severe car accident and other factors. “Had I not been mentally strong and received moral support from family and friends, I would have gone into severe depression,” he recalled. However, his determination led him to relocate his family to Guwahati and launch Colorbasket, a venture that has since served numerous clients across the Northeast in colour printing and design. Prominent clients include Guwahati Baptist Church, North East Christian University, Shalom Bible Seminary, Manipur Baptist Convention, Tangkhul Baptist Church Association, Tangkhul Naga Long, and various Naga apex bodies in Manipur and Nagaland.
Bringing innovation back home
Aran’s latest establishment in Ukhrul aims to provide international quality standards at competitive prices. “I came home not because I had nothing to do in Guwahati, but because of my love for my people and my commitment to serve the community,” says Aran. His business units in Ukhrul are staffed by six employees, including one part-timer, with a service branch in Guwahati. The group plans to scale up operations, generate employment opportunities, and revive reading habits among the community, especially the youth. “Reading is essential for the growth of the community and as individuals. We want to publish good, community-oriented books and transform the culture of reading,” Aran emphasises.
The vision of Aran Chihui for the future
Aran Chihui’s inspiring story is a testament to the power of grit, determination, and community spirit. His journey from a small plum vendor to a successful entrepreneur highlights the potential for positive change in Ukhrul and beyond.
Deputy commissioner Kengoo Zuringla lauded the establishment of the professional print and design studio, expressing hope for consistent, sustainable, and accessible services for the community. “Such an establishment is not only a blessing for the family but for the community,” said Zuringla.
Aran Chihui’s dedication to his roots and his vision for the future stand as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region. His story is a reminder that with perseverance and a commitment to serving others, even the most challenging journeys can lead to remarkable achievements. As Aran continues to build on his success, he remains committed to giving back to his community and inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.
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