In the heart of Manipur, where cultural traditions and modern aspirations meet, a young woman is quietly rewriting what it means to belong in the public eye. Aribam Reshma, a native of Imphal, is not just reading the news—she is creating it. As one of the region’s first visible hijabi news anchors, Reshma’s presence on screen has become a powerful symbol of possibility for young women, especially those from minority communities.
Her story is about much more than a wardrobe choice. In a media environment that often favours conformity, Reshma made a conscious decision to embrace her hijab, knowing it would set her apart. It was an act of quiet defiance against norms that too often make those who look different feel invisible. Each time she steps in front of the camera, she is making a statement: authenticity matters, and courage can change what audiences expect to see.
Redefining professionalism through authenticity
Reshma’s journey was not an easy one. From an early age, she was drawn to storytelling, fascinated by the power of words to inform and unite. She pursued a degree in mass communication, driven by a conviction that media could serve as a bridge between worlds. Internships at local media houses gave her a front-row seat to the challenges of the industry—where women, and particularly women in hijab, were rarely seen in positions of prominence.
Undeterred, Reshma brought both passion and professionalism to every assignment. Her reporting has spanned public affairs, culture, and grassroots development, but it is her calm presence and integrity that have won her the trust of viewers across the Northeast. In an industry where credibility is hard-earned, Reshma stands out not only for her journalistic skills but for the way she embodies the values she reports on.
Giving a platform to the unheard
Reshma’s commitment to inclusive storytelling has given voice to those who are often left on the margins. She has gone beyond headlines to highlight the stories of Manipur’s ethnic, religious, and linguistic minorities. Through her interviews and feature reports, she draws out the lived realities of her community—narratives that seldom reach the national stage.
Her work serves as a bridge between worlds, making visible the mosaic of identities that defines Northeast India. By shining a light on underrepresented voices, Reshma is expanding the scope of mainstream media and encouraging others to see diversity as a source of strength, not division.
An inspiration for future generations
Reshma’s influence stretches far beyond the news desk. She has become a role model for young people, particularly Muslim girls, who dream of careers in journalism but fear they must leave their identities behind. Whether she is speaking at colleges or engaging with communities at local events, Reshma’s message is consistent: “Don’t be afraid to take up space. Your story matters.”
Her journey is a source of encouragement for those who want to enter the media without compromising their values. In a society that can sometimes be rigid in its expectations, Reshma’s example opens doors for others to step forward just as they are.
Recognition and a growing impact
Even in the early stages of her career, Reshma’s impact has not gone unnoticed. She has been honoured with state-level awards for her efforts to promote cultural harmony and was recently invited as a panelist at major journalism forums to discuss diversity and representation. Her growing presence on television and digital platforms is a testament to both her talent and her commitment to authenticity.
But Reshma is not content to rest on her laurels. She is now preparing to launch a digital storytelling initiative, inviting women from across Northeast India to share their own journeys in their own words. For Reshma, this is more than a project—it is the fulfilment of her belief that the media should reflect the true richness of the society it serves.
Changing the narrative, one broadcast at a time
Aribam Reshma’s story is a reminder that representation is more than a buzzword—it is a force for transformation. With every broadcast, she is not just reading the news; she is making it possible for others to see themselves in stories that matter. Diversity, she shows us, is not a challenge but an opportunity to deepen our collective understanding.
By uniting faith with professionalism, Reshma is challenging old stereotypes and offering a new vision of what Indian journalism can be. Her journey is living proof that authenticity and perseverance can break barriers. In an era often defined by divisions and stereotypes, she broadcasts a message that rings truer than any headline: our identities, with all their complexity, are sources of strength—and every story has the power to inspire.
