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About Cheiraoba

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About Cheiraoba

Cheiraoba is the New Year of the Meitei people of Manipur. It falls on the first day of the lunar month of Sajibu, which comes in March or April. Its full name is Sajibu Nongma Panba Cheiraoba.

Families clean and decorate their homes in the days before. On the morning of the New Year, they cook many dishes and first offer some of the food to the deities, often at the gate of the house, before sitting down to eat together.

In the afternoon, people climb a nearby hill, such as Cheiraoching near Imphal. Climbing up is a wish to rise higher in life in the year ahead. Families also share food and visit relatives and elders.

How people celebrate Cheiraoba

  • Cleaning and decorating the home
  • Food offered to the deities at the gate
  • A big family New Year feast
  • Climbing a nearby hill for a higher year
  • Visiting elders and sharing food

How to wish well

  • Wish on the morning of the New Year, before or after the feast.
  • Wishes for rising higher, good health and a fresh start suit the day.
  • Mention the hill climb and the family meal to make a wish feel personal.

Questions about Cheiraoba

When is Cheiraoba?

On the first day of the lunar month of Sajibu, in March or April. The date for each year is shown on this page.

What is Cheiraoba?

The New Year of the Meitei people of Manipur, also called Sajibu Nongma Panba.

Why do people climb hills on Cheiraoba?

Climbing a hill on New Year's Day is a wish to rise higher in life in the coming year.

Which hill is climbed on Cheiraoba?

Any nearby hill. Cheiraoching near Imphal is one of the best known.

Is Cheiraoba a holiday?

Yes, Manipur keeps a public holiday for the New Year.

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