Manipur celebrates Ningol Chakouba

All of Manipur is celebrating 'Ningol Chakouba', a festival akin to Bhaiduj of North Indians involving the invitation of married sisters and daughters to their parental house for a grand feast.

Women in good attire with their children were seen going to their parental house to meet their brothers and father early in the morning.

Official sources said state fishery department had organised a temporary fish market at Imphal Hapta Kangjeibung (a playground) to sell fish at cheaper rates yesterday here where thousands of people came to purchase for the festival.

The government has also declared a holiday on Friday for the festival.

Governor Gurbachan Jagat and Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh in their messages conveyed warm greetings and best wishes to the people.

They said the festival would reinforce the fraternal and protective bond that exists between brothers and sisters.

Several valley-based civil organisations also invited sisters and brothers from hill areas for the feast on this occasion, reports said.

Read the TSI Exclusive on the Ningol Chakouba here.