Imphal, March 18 (EMN): Sajibu Nongma Panba Cheiraoba, the New Year of the Manipuris’ was celebrated in Manipur on Sun. March 18.
The festival was celebrated on the first day of the Manipuri month, Sajibu, which usually falls in the month of March end or early part of April. Last year it was held on March 29.
Praying to the gods by offering flowers, fruits and dishes, traditional family feasting, climbing nearby hillocks in the afternoon, etc., marked the occasion.
Special dishes are prepared from vegetables to be offered to deities for a grand feast for families. After the preparation, the food is offered by the elders of the house to three deities for the protection of the family.
Married women give gifts to their parents and brothers on the occasion. The youths seek the blessings of the elders.
President Ram Nath Kovind has conveyed warm wishes and greetings to the citizens of the country on the auspicious occasion of Sajibu Cheiraoba as well as one Chaitra Sukladi, Ugadi, Gudi Padava, Cheti Chand, Navreh.
He mentioned that the festivals reflect the diversity of the country and underline the unity of the Nation.
He further prayed for the festivals to strengthen the bond of fraternity among the people in various regions of the country.
Governor Dr Najma Heptulla has also conveyed warm wishes to the people of the state on the auspicious occasion of Sajibu Nongma Panba (Cheiraoba).
Chief Minister N Biren Singh, Assembly Speaker Y Khemchand Singh, Deputy Chief Minister Yumnam Joykumar Singh and others also greeted the people of the State on the occasion of Sajibu Nongma Panba Cheiraoba.
