Imphal: Upholding a cherished tradition among the Meitei community, Manipur and its diaspora worldwide celebrated Ningol Chakkouba on Sunday, a festival symbolizing the bond between parents, daughters, and brothers.
Held on the second day of the lunar month of Hiyangei (October-November), Ningol Chakkouba is a time-honored festival celebrating the enduring love between married women and their paternal families. On this day, married daughters return to their “mapam,” or parental homes, where they are warmly welcomed by their parents for a festive meal. Dressed in exquisite traditional attire, the women arrive with their children and bring gifts, which carry blessings for both their parents and children.
In anticipation of the festival, the state’s Chief Minister had encouraged legislators to celebrate with internally displaced persons (IDPs), although this was observed in only a few areas.
The main celebration was organized by the Arambai Tenggol across its units, a socio-religious group that has faced accusations related to the ongoing ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which began in May last year. Last year’s celebrations were not held.
Additionally, the state government organized a fish fair on Saturday, benefiting both the public and the state’s fish farmers.
