From Lakshmi Puja to Ningol Chakouba: How Manipur is gearing to celebrate Deepawali amid traditional grandeur

IMPHAL: Manipur is all set to celebrate Deepawali, the festival of lights, with traditional rituals, colourful decorations and enthusiasm. Symbolising the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and light over darkness, the festival holds an important place in the cultural and religious life of the state, particularly among the Meitei Hindu community. Deepawali will be celebrated on November 9, 2026, coinciding with the new moon day (Amavasya) of the Hindu lunar calendar. Speaking to Organiser Weekly, Dr. Laishram Nonibala Devi, a lecturer at T.G. Higher Secondary School, Imphal, described the traditional preparations and rituals observed by families in Manipur. She said preparations begin early in the morning with cleaning and sanctification of homes, followed by ritual bathing and collecting flowers to prepare garlands for household deities. Houses are decorated with flowers and garlands, particularly around the Chingphu (traditional rice storage pot), placed before the portrait of Goddess Lakshmi. Read More: Deepawali across the Globe | US, France, UAE to Australia & Sri Lanka: World leaders embrace cultural spirit of India In the evening, families perform Lakshmi Puja and illuminate different parts of their homes with traditional oil lamps and decorative lights. Offerings are made to the Goddess, followed by the distribution of prasad and sweets among family members. Children also visit different localities to enjoy the colourful festive illuminations. Highlighting the cultural significance of the festival, Khwairakpam Rajen Singh, a resident of Sangaiporou in Imphal West district, said Deepawali is one of the biggest festivals in Manipur and is celebrated across households, particularly among the Meitei community. He explained that the celebration goes beyond decorating the exterior of houses. Traditionally, families light at least one diya in every room, switching off electric lights, as well as in important household spaces such as ponds, garages, gates and other areas. Firecrackers have also traditionally been an expression of festive joy, although their use has become limited in recent years due to restrictions on their sale and availability in the market. He further highlighted the importance of Lakshmi Puja, during which sweets and other offerings are made to Goddess Lakshmi. Following the prayers, sweets are shared with friends, relatives and neighbours. Another popular tradition is for groups of young men and women to visit different parts of the city to enjoy and appreciate the colourful festive illuminations. Meanwhile, Saikhom Raju Singh, a social worker and resident of Khurai in Imphal East district, observed that Deepawali is one of the most popular festivals in Manipur and that the festive spirit begins to build from the last week of October. He said Deepawali is followed by Govardhan Puja and the traditional Ningol Chakouba festival, making November a month of successive celebrations across the state. With families and communities coming together for these occasions, Manipur remains immersed in a festive atmosphere throughout the month. Extending his Deepawalii greetings, Saikhom Raju expressed hope that the festival would usher in peace and harmony in Manipur. He wished that the light of Diwali would burn away all evils, hatred and divisions, paving the way for lasting peace and harmony across the state. Beyond religious observances, Deepawali also provides an opportunity for families, friends and neighbours to strengthen social bonds and celebrate shared cultural traditions. As homes, shops and institutions prepare to glow with traditional lamps and decorative lights, the festival once again brings the message of hope, harmony and the victory of light over darkness. Happy Deepawali!