Why in news?
The Manipur Fisheries Department organised its annual Fish Fair and Fish Crop Competition on the eve of the Ningol Chakouba festival, ensuring abundant supply of fresh fish for the celebrations. The event underscores the economic and cultural importance of fish in this traditional feast.
Background
Ningol Chakouba is one of Manipur’s most cherished festivals, held annually on the second day of Hiyangei, the eighth month of the Meitei lunar calendar (usually in October or November). The term ningol means “married daughter” or “married woman”, while chakouba translates to “invitation to a feast”. On this day, married women return to their parental homes, where their brothers and parents host a lavish meal.
The festival reinforces familial bonds. Brothers send formal invitations to their sisters a week in advance. Women arrive with gifts of fruits, sweets and other delicacies, which are shared among family members. Fish, particularly local varieties such as ngaton and ngamu, is an essential dish, symbolising prosperity. After the feast, brothers present their sisters with gifts and monetary tokens as a gesture of love and good wishes.
History
The origins of Ningol Chakouba date back to ancient Manipur. According to legend, Queen Laisana, wife of King Nongda Lairen Pakhangba, would invite her brother Poireiton for an annual feast at the palace. Over time the practice evolved. In the 19th century, King Chandrakriti Singh replaced the brother‑centred gathering with one focused on married daughters, making it easier for siblings to reunite. The modern festival retains this spirit of reunion and is now celebrated by Manipuri communities across India and abroad.
Significance
Ningol Chakouba is more than a social gathering. It honours women’s contributions, strengthens ties between natal and marital families and preserves Meitei cultural identity. The accompanying Fish Fair helps stabilise fish prices and showcases local aquaculture, benefiting farmers and consumers alike.