Manipur commemorates Anglo-Manipur War of 1891

• 

  
  

• Manipur governor Ajay Kumar Khalla and chief secretary Prasant Kumar Singh paying floral tribute at Khongjom river, 35 km south of Imphal on Khongjom, on Wednesday.

• 
  

• IMPHAL — In remembrance of the brave sons of the soil, who fought valiantly in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, the Khongjom Day was observed at the Khongjom War Memorial Complex at Khebaching, 35 km south of Imphal in Manipur’s Thoubal district on Wednesday.
• 
  
• The day’s observation began with a gun salute at the Samadhi of Paona Brajabashi, who sacrificed his life during the final battle of Anglo-Manipuri war in the year 1891, followed by floral tributes with rituals at Khongjom River.
• 
  
• Following a sankirtan by artistes of Manipur State Kala Academy, Manipur Governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla; chief secretary, Prashant Kumar; and other top officials of the government led the people to pay respect to Paona Brajabashi by laying wreaths at the statue of the freedom fighter at Kheba foothill.
• 
  
• Former chief minister, Okram Ibobi Singh; Lok Sabha MP, Angomcha Bimol Akoijam; MLAs including Kh Ibomcha and Th Lokeshwor were also present.
• 
  
• Khongjom Day is observed in Manipur on April 23 every year to pay tributes to the Manipuris during the Anglo-Manipuri war of 1891.
• 
  
• Later addressing the gathering, Governor Bhalla said that Khongjom Day is a tribute to those brave sons of Manipur, who had sacrificed their lives in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 for their motherland.
• 
  
• “The battle of Khongjom was not just a battle of arms but a battle of honour, patriotism and self- determination,” the Governor said adding, “The indomitable spirit of the people of Manipur remains a unique history of patriotism in the world.”
• 
  
• On the current situation in the state, Governor noted that significant efforts have been made over the past months to restore normalcy and ensure that Manipur progresses on the path of peace, stability and inclusive development. He also highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons residing in various relief camps.

Also read: Cyclothon marks World Earth Day in Manipur

• Urging the youth to contribute towards building a better Manipur and to uphold the ideals of justice, equality and brotherhood, the governor called on everyone to honour the sacrifices made at the Battle of Khongjom by striving to create a brighter, stronger and united Manipur.
• 
  
• A play based on the battle of Khongjom 1891 was showcased by the artistes of the renowned theatre group Rup Mahal as a part of the observation along with many other programmes.
• 
  
• BJP Manipur also observed the 134th Khongjom Day at its office premises in Imphal. Former Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, and other senior party leaders were present on the occasion.
• 
  
• In a post on X, Biren Singh wrote, "On this solemn occasion of Khongjom Day, we pay our heartfelt tributes to the brave sons of Manipur who laid down their lives in defense of our land and dignity during the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. Their sacrifice shall forever inspire us to uphold unity, peace, and justice in our society.
• 
  
• Let us carry forward their legacy with pride and purpose."