Another story of Ningol Chakkouba told
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 05 2021: Even as Ningol Chakkouba is at hand, there are many who will miss the day with some having lost a family member due to Covid, some to a road mishap etc.

Though the preparation for Ningol Chakkouba is on in full swing, some families, unfortunately, are unable to invite their married daughters and sisters for a feast which comes once a year.

Speaking to The Sangai Express, one Thangjam Umakanta Luwangcha from Yumnam Khunou who lost a family member to COVID -19 stated that though all persons are destined to die, "we must take precaution wherever necessary.

"As COVID-19 has taken away a family, I will not be able to celebrate Ningol Chakkouba with my dear sisters and aunts," he sighed.

Umakanta, nonetheless, wished all the Ningols a happy Ningol Chakkouba festival.

One Thoibi from Imphal East appealed to all to conform to the SoPs for COVID-19 not only to fend for themselves but also their beloved.

Thoibi maintained that she knows the brunt of the pandemic as she lost her mother to the contagion.

She added with a heavy heart that she cannot celebrate the auspicious day with her family due to COVID-19.She also stated that she remembers her mother more during this time of the year when Ningols are in a festive mood.

L Sanjit from Khundrakapam, said that he also cannot invite his sisters as Covid claimed one of his family members.

Saying that he remembers the fond memories he had shared with his sisters at this time during more fortunate years, Sanjit said that he would still present gifts to his neighbourhood sisters and aunts.

Another woman coming to purchase goods at Khwairamband Keithel said that the arrival of Ningol Chakkouba festival is gratifying and at the same time poignant.

Stating that every Ningol awaits this specific day throughout the year to spend quality time at their parents' home, the woman, however, stated that she hasn't been invited this year as one of her relatives died recently.

"It's disappointing that I will not see my parents waiting for me at our gate on the auspicious day," she said.

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