The 'wild thoughts' that enters one's mind is a very interesting concept. What I noticed was that Inquisitive seems primarily interested in 'food'...and problems that might relate to the 'food habits' of Manipuris. And not forgetting something as important as 'entertainment'.... dances, how can one survive without it?? (Inquisitive, the sarcasm is just in fun ok)

Truth to tell, there is more to life and marriage, than food and dances. But let us not dwell on such serious matters, let us discuss instead the 'wild thoughts' and give some wild responses befitting the wild thoughts.....

To answer your questions (and I do this with the sole intention of helping you with your 'research'!!!)

1. My only problem regarding this is non-availability. Hubby loves singju, ironba, ngari and hawaijar (with the exception of yongchak, which i have yet to help him acquire the taste of) etc as much as I do(unfortunately, so i have to share it with him). So when it is available, we eat it, and when not available, we call up my parents and ask them to send us some.
   
   

2. Check above answer...... any 'fights' that might occur may be because everyone wants a share of the Manipuri speciality.
   
   

3. They insist on me cooking Manipuri delicacies for them (what a chore!!!)
   
   

4. This one also answered above already! (Can we move on from the 'food' topic?)
   
   

5. This question doesn't require an answer really. My parents are welcomed with open arms for bringing more Manipuri delicacies every time they visit us!!!
   
   

6. I discuss these things like I discuss anything else from my past, of which my hubby was not a part. He finds it interesting, as he finds anything about me interesting!!!
   
   

7. Since I don't speak my hubby's language, this question does not apply to me, but believe me, he understands, if I am upset about something!!!! (Don't I sound like an absolute shrew? Some Manipuri guy sure had a lucky break not having to marry me)
   
   

8. They look absolutely gorgeous, as most hybrid children tend to be, whether Mayang - Manipuri or Caucasian - Manipuri or African - Manipuri. (And not forgetting the fact that they tend to have higher IQ than most inbreeds kids!)
   
   

9. I love cooking and even before marriage, I had learnt how to cook various dishes, besides Manipuri dishes....be it south Indian, north Indian, continental, Chinese etc.
   
   

10. This does not deserve an answer. Talking about color smacks of racism...so will not comment!
    
    

11. We practice 'freedom of religion'.
    
    

12. I don't have to, but even if I had to, I don't mind...when in Rome do as the Roman do...when he comes to Manipur he does it the way we do it!!! (after all marriage is all about compromise!)
    
    

13. I address him as I please, and it pleases him whatever form of endearment I use to address him.
    
    

14. I feel happy that Manipuri couples are as happy as my hubby and I are!!! (variety is the spice of life...so variety does add flavor to my life...all things Manipuri are fine but having other things besides Manipuri things in life, is fun too)
    
    

15. What makes you think that only Manipuris enjoy things like that??? You underestimate the power of Manipuri entertainment.
    
    

16. I say, participate in whatever is fun and available. If dandia is the dance of the moment then do the dandia, if bhangra is the dance of the moment, why not? If it is ballroom dancing, or square dancing, that would be fine too. And if thabal chongba is, then I am all for it.
    
    

17. No, Never felt that it was a wrong decision (seriously). And who says i have deprived myself of the Manipuri way of life?? I look at it this way; I am sharing both my heritage and his heritage. He gets to experience the Manipuri way of life, and I get to experience his culture too.

I do want to add a word of caution though. Not every mix marriage works out the way mine did. Not all hubbies like Manipuri food, and not all in-laws are broad minded and accepting, so for those of you Manipuri girls out there, think real hard before deciding to marry a non-Manipuri...for that matter think real hard before marrying anyone, Manipuri or non-Manipuri!!!!

Inquisitive you are right, love does transcend all barriers, be it language, caste or creed. And marriage is not just about language and culture, the important thing is to marry the one who loves you.

And on that positive note, I end.

P.S. Smile when you are reading the above, I replied it in the spirit that Inquisitive asked those questions. Honest answers, but with a dash of humor.

To read the original "With Love To My Non-manipuri Sisters" , click here
Read another Reply from a Non-Nanipuri Sister