Our Correspondent
Imphal, Jan. 9 (EMN): The 189th Death Anniversary of Maharaj Gambhir Singh was organised by the Manipur State Archaeology, Department of Arts and Culture, government of Manipur at the Samadhi of Maharaj, Langthabal in Imphal West district on Monday.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh accompanied by Rajya Sbha MP Maharaj Leishemba Sanajaoba, MLAs M Rameshwar (Kakching), Kh Raghumani (Uripok), Th Shanti (Moirang), Dr. Y Radheshyam (Hiyanglam), Th Arunkumar (Wangkhei), P Brojen (Wangjing Tentha), I Nalini (Oinam), DGP P Doungel, officials and locals attended the function.
Speaking on the occasion, Biren singh said, ‘we are here today as a society, as a state because of our forefathers,’ and highlighted the heroic efforts of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, Meidingu Narsingh and Sana Herachandra who drive off the Burmese and ended the Seven Years Devastation.
Stressing on the importance of history, Biren Singh said one cannot disassociate from history while emphasising that historical statues, memorial parks, museums, etc., tell stories of the forefathers of the land while reminding the present generations of their forefathers and their deeds, strengthening the feeling of nationalism.
He further spoke on the significance and importance of opening of the Kangla Nongpok Thong and expressed his belief that it will bring more peace, prosperity and unity in the state.
Mention can be made here that Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his recent visit to Manipur inaugurated some important projects including Kangla Nongpok Thong.
‘We should always remember that evil deed of the people of the valley will impact the hills and vice-versa,’ said Biren Singh while highlighting the unbreakable bond between the hills and the valley in the state.
Biren Singh also expressed the need to have a clear concept and understanding of the land’s history, beliefs and data to educate people from outside. He further encouraged historians and researchers to publish articles on history based on the truth and facts.
In a brief speech, Chairman L Rameshwor Meetei of Planning and Development Authority L Rameshwor Meetei who is also sitting Keirao MLA spoke on the dangers of drug abuse and further stressed on the need to support the war on drugs campaign to uproot the drug menace from the state.
As part of the function, the Chief Minister led in offering floral tributes to the portraits of Maharaj Gambhir Singh and statues of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, Meidingu Narasingh and Sana Herachandra. Other highlights of the function include a guard of honour, gun salute, sounding of the Last Post by a contingent of Manipur Rifles, obeisance to Dhop Pala performance, tarpon offerings, and inauguration of a cafeteria by the Chief Minister, etc.