This year’s Ningol Chakkouba festival in Manipur (2025) took on a deeply emotional turn as internally displaced married women—affected by the ongoing ethnic violence in the state—celebrated the festival away from their homes.
- Traditionally a day of joy and reunion, it became a symbol of resilience and hope, with communities organizing celebrations in relief camps and host shelters across the valley districts.
About Ningol Chakkouba
- Meaning: The word ‘Ningol’ means married daughter or sister, and ‘Chakkouba’ means invitation for a feast.
- It celebrates the bond between sisters/daughters and their parental families.
- When celebrated:
- On the second day of the lunar month of Hiyangei (October–November).
- Where celebrated:
- Primarily in Manipur, especially among the Meitei community of the Imphal Valley.
- Observed across Manipur and by Manipuri diasporas worldwide (in Assam, Tripura, and Myanmar).
- Who participates:
- Married women visit their parental homes with children.
- They are welcomed by their brothers and parents with a feast, gifts, and blessings.
Customs and Rituals
- The eldest son or brother invites all married sisters to a family feast.
- The father or elder male member leads prayers before meals.
- Women receive gifts (Phanek, Innaphi, traditional shawls) and monetary tokens symbolizing blessings.
- Men receive handmade delicacies and traditional Manipuri food prepared by the mother or daughters.
Prelims-Oriented Facts
|
Aspect |
Details |
| Festival Name | Ningol Chakkouba |
| Community | Primarily Meitei community of Manipur |
| Meaning | Ningol = married daughter/sister; Chakkouba = feast invitation |
| Celebrated On | Second day of the lunar month of Hiyangei (October–November) |
| Purpose | Reaffirming the bond between married women and their parental families |
| Cultural Symbolism | Love, unity, and familial respect |
| Recent Context (2025) | Displaced women celebrated in relief camps amid Manipur conflict |
| Similar Cultural Parallels | Bhai Dooj (North India), Raksha Bandhan |
| Economic Relevance | Promotes local crafts, traditional food, and women-led markets |
Statement-Based MCQ
Consider the following statements regarding the Ningol Chakkouba festival:
- It is primarily celebrated by the Meitei community of Manipur.
- It is observed on the second day of the lunar month of Hiyangei (October–November).
- During this festival, married daughters and sisters are invited to their parental homes for a feast.
- It is also known as the “Festival of Lights” in Manipur.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b)
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