The more the rubber band is stretched, the more force it applies to return to equilibrium, says my cousin brother Rinku Khumukcham, the editor in chief, Imphal Times, when I shared with him about my being homesick and feeling missing traditional festivals for 2 decades, on a WhatsApp chat. It is true that the more we are far away from home, the more we yearn for it just like a rubber band returns to equilibrium after stretching. To me, equilibrium is the state of wanting. This fundamental idea of physics really connects with the real-life situation. Being a member of diaspora communities, challenges always throw at life when it comes to adjustment to a new culture and environment. Though being caught up in the new culture, our roots always bonds us which is the foundation of our life. Our culture, tradition and our food are the part and parcel of our life that has deep seated in every atom of our body.
Valuing our own culture first is very vital. Understanding and respecting other cultures embraces the cultural difference. Exposing our culture to the world and preserving it through continuous exposition underpins the identity and gives a good strength to the society. Though there is a myriad of cultural differences within the diaspora communities, keeping them under one umbrella, we focus on to reflect each traditional theme with a sense of oneness by respecting to one another. Festivals contribute to expose our cultural identity. It builds a bridge between communities and cultures. Festivals bring people together and offer an opportunity to know each other and learn from each other with respect and love within the diaspora communities too. To forge a close bond among the NEIA community, recently Ningol Chakouba and Deepandita festivals were celebrated together. It was organized by NEIA THAILAND (North East India Association, Thailand), that comprised of 8 states including Sikkim. The occasion was graced by Her Excellency Suchitra Durai, the Indian Ambassador in Thailand, along with other guests. Ningol Chakouba was led by Manipur Chapter though the celebration was the combined effort of NEIA. The sincere effort of our Manipuri brother (Ekpua Ibungo) Pisgah Gonmei from Thaninkhun, Bishnupur in organizing the event successfully is quite commendable and much appreciated. We both prepared the delicious Manipuri food for Ningol Chakouba. Assamese brothers and sisters prepared their Assamese food. We all enjoyed the food together.
The great evening was echoed with a rainbow of cultural extravaganza. That was our first Ningol Chakouba edition to be held together with the brothers and sisters from our North East states. The guests were felicitated with handmade gifts by the members of NEIA. Sherly Roy Chanamthabam from Lairikyengbam Leikai, Khuarai did the fantastic hosting job. After the Chakouba lunch, gift was first presented to Her Excellency Suchitra Durai and to all the ningols or ladies by all the brothers from North East states. Blessings were showered upon the ningols and brothers too received the blessings from ningols. The bonding moments was priceless and memorable one. Close on the heels was the Thabal Chongba dance. Her Excellency too joined the Thabal Chongba led by me. It was really a wonderful evening. Everyone wore the happy smiles on their faces. They enjoyed the event with joys and laughter. Many talented members came forward to complete the event by presenting songs and dance. Our Manipuri sister enaonupi Estrillita Gachuiwung Shimray from Ukhrul and Eche Aribam Arati from Singjamei performed a fantastic solo singing. That was our proud moment. We never realized that we have many talented artists in our Manipur Chapter. Such a traditional event offers an opportunity to them to showcase their talents. The same thing is with our Assamese and other north east brothers and sisters. They too showcased their talents. Most of the ladies came in their traditional attire. Different attires make them look distinct and beautiful.
“Together we can do it” is my favorite quote. Irrespective of race, caste, creed and religion, and with less concern of wanting to own ethnic identity, we can experience peace, love and happiness. As we already know that Ningol Chakouba is all about to strengthen the bond of love and affection between brothers and sisters, and family members. There is no any religious matters. In my opinion, this event can be celebrated by every section of the society or by everyone. Let’s not limit this to one particular community because we all are brothers and sisters. This is the pure love event. Love is the pure energy that heals the wound. Love brings peace. Love brings happiness. So, let’s sprinkle love around us and make it contagious. Let’s nurture this seed of love till our last.
With Love
Tilotama Ningthoujam @ mimi ningjaa
