Imphal: Manipur celebrated 'Ningol Chakkouba' today, a beautiful occasion when brothers invite married sisters for a grand feast during lunch time at their ancestral home in every household of the Meitei community.
The day has been declared state holiday by the state government.
All shops and business establishment including Bazars, hotels, entertainment houses closed voluntarily to enjoy Ningol Chakkouba which is one of the biggest indigenous festival of Manipur.
As the clock struck 11 am all the married sisters were seen going to their brothers' houses wearing traditional dress and ornaments and carrying fruits and several eatables for their brothers.
Ningol Chakkouba occured once in a calender year, "Ningol" meaning "sister" and "Chakkauba" meaning "invited luncheon" every year.
This festival strengthened the bond of love and affection between the brothers and sisters among Manipuris.
The Governor of Manipur V Sanmuganathan, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh. Speaker Legislative Assembly Th Lokeshwar Singh, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, dignitaries of Army and Assam Rifles conveyed warm greetings to the people on the occasion.
