Transgender women call for respect and recognition during Ningol Chakkouba celebration
Source: The Sangai Express

Moirang, October 25 2025: Transgender women, also known as Nupi Manbi, have called on the people of the State to respect their dignity as human beings and to stop marginalising them.

Instead, they urged society to acknowledge their significant roles in shaping and contributing to the community.

The appeal was made during a Ningol Chakkouba celebration jointly organised by the Mahei Centre and Transgender Moirang at Shanti Mandop, Moirang Lamkhai.

The event was attended by around 80 transgender women (Nupi Manbi) from various parts of the State.

The Ningol Chakkouba festival, which symbolises the bond between brothers and sisters, holds deep emotional value in Manipuri society.

However, many transgender women shared that they are often excluded from the celebrations.

Speaking on the occasion, one of the transgender women stated that despite their dispersal across various parts of the State, transgender women play a vital role in uplifting the State during times of social distress.

She further shared that while many Ningols are invited by their brothers to celebrate the festival, most Nupi Manbis are left out, with no one inviting them to join the joyous occasion.

To counter this exclusion, they pool their resources with the support of the people, to organize the event and uphold the cherished tradition of Ningol Chakkouba in a spirit of unity and acceptance, she stated.

The event served not only as a festive gathering but also as a heartfelt reminder of inclusivity and acceptance.

The Nupi Manbis were honoured with gifts and shared a joyful meal together, reaffirming their place in society and the enduring spirit of fraternity that the festival represents.

Comment