Imphal, July 19 -- In the bustling locality of Top Makha Leikai in Imphal, 45-year-old Nongthombam Rita is redefining the culinary landscape of Manipur through her food venture, Leimalen Foods.

What began as a small tea and snack stall outside her home has now evolved into a thriving enterprise, blending tradition with innovation.

Rita's signature product, Chakhao Gulla, a sweet made from Manipur's indigenous black rice, is winning hearts across the state. The idea took root during the Ningol Chakouba festival, a time when traditional delicacies are celebrated.

In 2020, she rented a machine from the District Industries Centre (DIC) to scale up production. Encouraged by its popularity, she later purchased a second-hand machine and conti...