Patriots Day observed at Bengaluru
- August 13, 2023 :: Manipuri Meitei Association, Bangalore -

*

Patriots Day observed at Bengaluru

The Manipuri Meitei Association, Bangalore commemorated the 132nd Patriotic Day on August 13th, a significant date that marks the sacrifice of the martyrs of the Anglo Manipur War in 1891. In the tapestry of modern India's history, the Anglo-Manipur War, 1891 holds immense importance and is often regarded as the second war of independence.

During this historical event, the British Imperial Army, advancing from three different directions, clashed with the Manipuri Army composed of Meitei, Naga, and various tribal forces. The pivotal Battle of Kongjom, one of the fiercest engagements of the World War-II, saw the defeat of the Manipuri Army. Meitei Prince Bir Tikendrajit Singh and Naga General Thangal General were publicly executed, while other brave souls like Paona Brajabasi and many more martyrs fell in action.

Numerous prisoners of war were condemned to imprisonment in the notorious Andaman jail. In importance of this War Prime Minister Modi named the third highest peak in Adaman as Mount Manipur. It's a day to remember and honor, a day that resonates with the echoes of courage and determination.

The day stands as a solemn reminder and tribute, echoing with the unwavering courage and resolute spirit of those who sacrificed for the cause

Patriots Day observed at Bengaluru

The commemorative event unfolded at the Chowdiah Memorial Hall in Malleswaram, Bengaluru, drawing Manipuris from all walks of life. The event was kicked off with lamp lighting followed by welcome speech by MMAB Chief Coordinator Arun Yambem, four distinguished speakers graced the occasion with their insights:

1. Dr. Malem Ningthouja, a historian, eloquently emphasized the significance of the war and the lessons it holds for us today. He highlighted how the Manipur region came under the dominion of the British Empire and the importance of understanding this history.

2. Ashang Kasar, a Naga leader, spoke about the need for indigenous communities to stay united and harmonious, following the legacy set by our forefathers. He stressed the importance of collective development and the adoption of self-sustaining models to counter the current crises in Manipur. Asang urged Meiteis to unite and establish an apex body while urging the diaspora to play a pivotal role in driving development and effecting change on the ground.

3. Dr. Arambam Noni highlighted the paramount role of educators and how some Kuki professors are attempting to distort Manipur's rich history. He vehemently denounced such actions as severe crimes that must be addressed with the utmost seriousness.

4. Dr. Bimol Akoijam’s discourse centered on the importance of drawing lessons from historical defeats, and applying these insights in the contemporary context to build a resilient future.

5. The event served as an embodiment of remembrance, unity, and the aspiration to build a brighter future, and it successfully united the Manipuri community in Bangalore to pay homage to the sacrifices of their ancestors.

MMAB president Maj Rajkumar Jhaljit (Retd.) gave the background of MMAB and role played in supporting impacted people in Manipur, people staying in relief camps, including providing medical assistance and supporting impacted students studying in Karnataka and assisting in getting legal justice to the impacted people. And thanked all the members for the making the event a grand succusses.

National anthem was sung by all Manipuri in the packed Hall. They also displayed banners and raised slogan seeking equal rights and access to natural resources for Meitei in Manipur, stop narco-Terrorist, stop illegal Immigration, Unity and Integration of Manipur and India.

Wish you all a very Happy Independence Day.

MMAB
Publicity and Media Secretary