Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 31 2010:
A one day discussion programme on 'Identification of State Flags of the Ancient Kingdom of Manipur (Kangleipak)' was held under the aegis of the International Peace and Social Advancement (IPSA) at Manipur State Guest House today.
The inaugural function of the seminar was attended by titular king Sanajaoba, IPSA advisor H Ibotombi Khuman and Head of History Department, Manipur University N Joykumar as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.
Giving key-note address of the seminar, Johnson Elangbam of IPSA said that one should not overlook the fact that Manipur was once a sovereign kingdom.
He stressed on the importance of understanding the characteristics of being a sovereign nation by the present generation and the need to do thorough academic research on the subject.
Leishemba Sanajaoba reminded that Manipur was a sovereign nation for centuries.
The nation had its own culture, tradition, religion and language.
It is quite opportune to do extensive academic research on the state flags of ancient Manipur.
Observing that the number of people who interpret modernism in the wrong sense has been increasing, the titular king lamented that there are many people who does not even remember Manipur was once a sovereign nation.
"This does not mean that we should be anti-national", he added.
National flag is a fundamental element of a sovereign nation as well as formerly sovereign nations.
For Manipur too, an extensive research is needed to identify the national flags of Manipur.
Symbols and emblems inscribed in national flags have great significance.
They indicated levels of civilization achieved during different periods of history, Sanajaoba said.
N Joykumar emphasised the importance of doing an extensive scientific research to ascertain whether Manipur had its own flag or the flags were changed from king to king.
H Ibotombi Khuman said that the national characteristics of Manipur should be carried forward by the present generation to future.
The seminar was moderated by former Principal of Presidency College Ng Kangjia Mangang.
Senior Lecturer of Oriental College Dr TB Singh, Dr N Deben, Mutuwa Museum Director Mutuwa Bahadur and Ng Khomba were resource persons at the seminar.