IMPHAL, Nov 9 - The people of Manipur, specially those residing in the valley areas, today celebrated Ningol Chakouba, considered one of the grandest festivals of the State. The festival is a special day for married women in Manipuri society. From early morning, married sisters and daughters visit their parental homes in their finest attire and with assorted goodies.
In return, they also get gifts from their parents and brothers. Grand feasts with multiple courses, specially fish curry, are hosted on the occasion.
Ningol Chakouba is celebrated on the second day of the lunar month of Hiyanggei (October-November) to renew and strengthen familial bonds.
As most families celebrated the festival on Friday, roads leading to the State capital wore a deserted look.
Governor Dr Najma Heptulla and Chief Minister N Biren Singh greeted the people of Manipur on the occasion of Ningol Chakkouba. Social Welfare Minister Nemcha Kipgen announced the release and transfer of pension benefits under the Manipur old age pension scheme to the accounts of over 45,000 beneficiaries for 12 months through Direct Benefit Transfer on the occasion of the festival. The pension amount of Rs 2,400 (Rs 200 per month) per beneficiary will be from March 2017 to February 2018.