IMPHAL, Oct 30 - The people of Manipur, especially those residing in the valley, today celebrated Ningol Chakouba, one of the grandest festivals of the State.
The festival is a special day for married women in Manipuri society. From early morning, married women visited their parental homes dressed in their finest attire and carrying assorted goodies. In return, they also received gifts from their parents and brothers.
Ningol Chakouba is celebrated on the second day of the lunar month of �Hiyanggei� (October-November) to renew and strengthen familial bonds.
�Ningol� means daughter and �Chakouba� means invitation to the mother�s house for lunch.
On this day, a grand feast is hosted for the daughters at their �mapam� (parental place). The menu mostly includes different forms of fish curry.
The busy Khwairamband Keithel, the main market in Imphal, and all roads leading to the State capital, wore a desolate look during the day as most people joined their families for the festival. However, in the evening, there was traffic congestion on the roads as the women returned home.
Manipur Governor Dr Najma Heptulla, Chief Minister N Biren Singh, his ministerial colleagues, Speaker of the Manipur Assembly Yumnam Khemchand, and the Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South) greeted the people on the occasion of Ningol Chakouba.
