'Nongma Panba Laikol Kaba' held at Kakching
Source: The Sangai Express

Kakching, May 17 2026: Withan aim to preserve and promote Meitei customs and traditions, the monthly observance of "Nongma Panba Laikol Kaba" (Laibung Kaba) was held on Saturday at Kakching Wairi Ibudhou Laikol.

The programme was organised to encourage the younger generation to uphold the rich cultural heritage and traditional practices of the Meitei community.

As part of the event, newly inducted members of Arambai Tenggol took oath, while traditional competitions including "Phou Suba" (traditional rice milling) for young girls and "Suk Langba" (traditional stick-play) for men were also conducted.

Speaking on the occasion, Arambai Tenggol Unit-25 commander Naoba Naorem said the Laibung Kaba programme has been organised regularly since August 5, 2025, with the objective of reviving and preserving the gradually fading customs and traditions of the Meitei community.

He stated that the traditional "Suk Langba" competition was organised to revive the age-old practice of testing physical strength and skill among men, while the "Phou Suba" competition aimed to familiarise younger generations with traditional rice milling practices.

In the "Suk Langba" competition, M Romio of Kakching Thonglan secured the first position, while L William of Kakching Makha Lou and N Albert of Kakching Makha Leikai won the second and third positions respectively.

In the "Phou Suba" competition, the pair of Narmada and Julia of Kakching Makha bagged the first position.

Ksh Catherine and M Jennifer secured the second position, while N Panthoi and N Priyaluxmi of Kakching Phousupat Leikai stood third.

The winners were felicitated with prizes by the organisers.

Members of Arambai Tenggol Unit-26 who successfully passed the HSLC examination were also honoured with gifts as encouragement for their achievements.

Comment