Our Correspondent
Imphal, April 23 (EMN): In remembrance of the brave sons of the soil who fought in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, Khongjom Day was observed at Khongjom War Memorial Complex at Khebaching, 35km south of Imphal in Manipur’s Thoubal district on Saturday.
The day’s observation started with a guard of honour gun salute at the Samadhi of Paona Brajabasi, who sacrificed his life during the final battle of Anglo-Manipuri war, followed by floral tribute with rituals at Khongjom River.
Later, addressing a function, Governor La Ganesan said, “The sacrifices made by our forefathers should always be remembered and honoured. We should follow their footsteps and their dignity should remain protected. Conquering the hearts of the people is also a unique character of our leaders, which we should learn from them”.
Ganesan further stated that India is a land of difference, which makes the country unique from other countries. Likewise, Manipur also has a different character of history amongst the Indian states. People should understand the reason why Khongjom Day is being celebrated, he added.
In his presidential speech, Chief Minister N Biren Singh, said that ‘the age-old history of Manipur and sacrifices made by our forefathers will always remain in our hearts’.
The present historical site of Khongjom particularly, Tengol Lampak will be beautified and upgraded soon after a cabinet decision, he informed.
The call of nation first and united India, which was advocated by our leaders, should be respected. Being a federal country the respect to states by the centre is worth appreciating. The renaming of mount Harriet in Andaman and Nicobar island as mount Manipur by Union Home Minister Amit Shah is a living example of respect to Manipur by the union government, Biren added.
A play based on the battle of Khongjom, 1891 was showcased by the artiste of the Art and Culture department as part of the observation. Khongjom Parba, a traditional folk song depicting the Khongjom battle, was also presented.
Governor La Ganesan, Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh, ministers, MLAs and other top officials of the government were present on the occasion.
Khongjom day is observed in Manipur on April 23 every year to pay tribute to the Manipuris who fell in the Anglo-Manipuri war of 1891.