Rich tributes paid to Gambhir Singh
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 09 2014: The State today paid fitting tributes to Maharaj Gambhir Singh and his brother Nara Singh on the occasion of the former's death anniversary.

The death anniversary function held at their Langthabal memorial complex was jointly organised by the State Archeology, Department of Art and Culture and Kangla Fort Board.

Apart from paying floral tributes to Maharaj Gambhir Singh and Nara Singh at their tombs, ritual offerings were made at the tank located inside the complex.

Chief Minister O Ibobi, Ministers I Hemochandra, Dr Kh Ratankumar, MLA RK Anand and MLA K Shyam led the gathering in paying floral tributes to the two kings, fondly remembered for many a great and heroic battles they fought against Burmese soldiers.

A contingent of Manipur Rifles gave guard of honour to the two brothers who successfully drove away Burmese forces and re-established sovereignty of Manipur.

Chief Minister O Ibobi paying floral tributes at the portrait of Maharaj Gambhir Singh

Later, the Chief Minister unveiled a statue of Maharaj Gambhir Singh.

A Dhop Pala performance, an art form introduced during the reign of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, was also presented.

Chief Minister Ibobi too took part in the Dhop Pala performance.

Ibobi was the chief guest of the function presided by PHED Minister I Hemochandra.

Works Minister Dr Kh Ratankumar, MLA K Shyam and MLA RK Anand were also seated on the dais as guests of honour.

Speaking on the occasion, Ibobi recalled that it was Maharaj Gambhir Singh, son of Maharaj Bheigyachandra who won back Manipur's independence after the kingdom was occupied by Burmese forces from 1819 to 1825, known in the history of Manipur as Seven Years' Devastation.

The king who always worked to keep Kabow Valley for Manipur expired on January 9, 1834 .

Saying that the State Government has been working to preserve and protect the memorial complex of Gambhir Singh, the Chief Minister pledged that more efforts would be put in to develop the memorial complex so that it is transformed as a splendid site which can attract tourists.

In addition to the memorial complex, Leishang Hiden canal as well as Langthabal Palace from where four kings ruled over Manipur would be developed and restored to its historical glory, Ibobi stated.

"Not only Gambhir Singh, we are obliged to pay fitting homage to Nara Singh for their spirit, valour and dedication to the nation", Ibobi stated.

He also called upon all youngsters to be ready to respond to any call of the nation.

I Hemochandra observed that it was 500 strong Manipur Levy led by Maharaj Gambhir who ended the Burmese reign of terror known as the Seven Years' Devastation.

Enrolment of Manipuri Muslims in the Manipur Levy was a clear indication that Maharaj Gambhir Singh did not discriminate between religions, caste or creed, Hemochandra asserted.

MLA K Shyam said that Rs 52700000 has been sanctioned for development and beautification of the Maharaj Gambhir Singh memorial complex.

The memorial complex would be transformed into a magnificent, landmark structure in the next couple of years, he exuded.