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
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.
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."
