Ningol Chakouba is one of the most cherished festivals in Manipur, deeply rooted in the state’s tradition of family bonds and cultural heritage. Celebrated primarily among the Meitei community and now embraced by various ethnic groups across Manipur, this festival brings together married daughters with their parental families in a joyful reunion.
Photo source: thefrontieremanipur
Origins and History of Ningol Chakouba
Originally known as Piba Chakouba, this festival was initially a gathering where sons (Piba) were invited back to their family homes. However, the tradition evolved over the centuries, becoming Ningol Chakouba, which translates to “Daughters’ Feast” (Ningol meaning married daughters and Chakouba meaning invitation for a meal).
The festival is said to date back to around the fourth century when Queen Laisana invited her brother, Poireiton, for a family feast. Later, during the 19th century, King Chandrakriti, saddened by the conditions he observed at his sisters’ homes, decided to invite them to his palace for a special annual feast. This act of generosity and love became a tradition, shifting the focus of the festival from sons to married daughters. Thus, Piba Chakouba became Ningol Chakouba, a day dedicated to daughters returning to their parental homes for a grand celebration.
The Celebration Today
Today, Ningol Chakouba is a festival enjoyed not just by the Meitei community but by various ethnic groups in Manipur. It’s a beautiful occasion where families reconnect, celebrate, and reinforce bonds. Traditionally, invitations for the celebration are sent out well in advance to married daughters and sisters, often symbolically written on a rolled betel leaf with betel nut.
Married women, or “Ningols,” dress in vibrant traditional attire for this occasion, bringing along gifts such as sweets, fruits, and other treats for their parents and family members. They receive a warm welcome and are treated to a grand feast prepared lovingly by their families. The spread includes a variety of traditional Manipuri dishes, creating a nostalgic and joyful atmosphere.
How the Festival is Celebrated Beyond Manipur
Ningol Chakouba is not only celebrated within Manipur; it has also traveled with the Meitei diaspora and is celebrated by Manipuri communities living outside the state. For these families, the festival serves as a way to reconnect with their roots, pass on cultural values to younger generations, and maintain strong ties with their heritage.
Social Organizations and Community Feasts
Many Manipuri social organizations play an active role in Ningol Chakouba celebrations by hosting large communal feasts and organizing events that bring together people from both the hills and the valley. These gatherings often involve an exchange of gifts, creating an atmosphere of merriment, gratitude, and unity. The celebration fosters a sense of community and solidarity among people from diverse backgrounds, making it a cherished occasion for everyone involved.
The Timing and Traditional Practices
Ningol Chakouba, also known as Hiyangei Nini Paanba, is observed on the second lunar day of the Manipuri month Hiyangei, typically in October or November. This year, the festival falls on November 3rd. Being a once-a-year celebration, it holds immense significance for families and is awaited with much excitement.
On the day of the festival, families prepare a lavish spread of traditional dishes, while married women arrive with gifts for their parents and siblings. The day is filled with laughter, stories, and emotional moments as families come together, reminding everyone of the unbreakable bond they share.
Why Ningol Chakouba Matters
Ningol Chakouba goes beyond just a meal shared between family members; it’s a reaffirmation of cultural heritage, values, and relationships. It symbolizes the parents’ love and blessings for their daughters and a reminder to everyone of the importance of family ties. For daughters, it’s an opportunity to reconnect with their roots and relive cherished childhood memories.
Conclusion
Ningol Chakouba is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of familial love and unity that transcends generations and social backgrounds. With its rich history and the warmth it brings to families, this festival is a timeless reminder of the cultural beauty and deep-rooted values of Manipur.
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