Rani Gadinliu fittingly remembered
Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network

Imphal, January 27 2015: A grand observance of the birth centenary of legendary freedom fighter Haipei Rani Gaidinliu was held at Tharon village, Imphal Weston Jan 26,2015 organised by the Zeliangrong Baudi, Manipur.

Gaidon Kamei, president, UNC, TS Warngam, vice president, UNC, Dr Benjamin Gangmei were the chief guest, guest of honour and talker repectively.

The observance was also attended by Athuan Abonmai, social worker, Meidinlung Pamei, social worker, Sebastian Kamei, social worker and S Milan, information secretary, UNC.

Many men and women, religious leaders and intellectuals also attended the auspicious occasion.

Speaking at the occasion, Dr Benjamin Gangmei stated that logically Haipei Rani Gaidinliu was the freedom fighter of both India and the Nagas.

Her movement coincided with that of India� it was launched at the same time and in same territorial context (British India) and her objective, which was to drive out the British from Naga areas was also same with that of Indian freedom fighters who fought the objective in India.

"So, her freedom struggle coincided with India's freedom struggle having the same goal.

Hence she was considered India's freedom fighter.

Moreover, late Jawaharlal Nehru did a good job in this regard.

Haipei Rani Gaidinliu belonged to the great Naga family who created a commendable place in the political history for her people, the Nagas.

She fought for freedom as a Naga and was a successor of Haipou Jadonang.

By virtue of such irrefutable facts about her freedom struggle, she was a Naga freedom.

fighter," Dr Benjamin further said.

TS Warngam stated that it is important to introspect whether the seeds of freedom sown by late Rani Gaidinliu have been realized or not.

Also speaking on the occasion Gaidon Kamei said that Naga Raj movement spearheaded by Haipou Jadonang and Hainei Rani Gaidinliu was for the freedom of the entire Naga people.

"Today, she is recognized and revered as a freedom fighter of India: However, Government of India seem to be oblivious to the dream of Rani Gaidinliu and the political aspiration she cherished for her people" Gaidon added.

Ashinpou Gangmei, Atbuan Abonmai also spoke oh the occasion.

Meanwhile, Zeliangrong leaders and public including Naga leaders welcomed and thought highly of India's decision to issue coins of Rs 100 and Rs 5 denominations .

in connection with Haipei Rani Gaidinliu's Centenary Observance.

Zeliangrong Baudi, Manipur also extended gratitude to 'Naga brothers' of Nagaland for upholding and protecting Rani Gaidinliu during the long period she lived in Nagaland and for constructing a museum-cum-library in her memory in Nagaland which, has been completed despite protest from a handful of individuals, who do not understand Naga history clearly.

The Kabui Mothers' Association (KAMA) also celebrated the birth centenary of Haipei Rani Gaidinliu at Zeliangrong Union Hall, Kakhulong, Paona Bazar.

The-birth centenary celebration began yesterday and the main observance function will be held tomorrow at MFDC Hall, Palace Gate.

The programme today was attended by vice-president of ZU (AMN) R Chandra Haomei, "KAMA president Kakomlunglu Kamei, chairman of ZU (Bishnupur & Sadar Zone) Athai Kamei, vice-chairman of ZU (Imphal zone) Achung Kamei, president of Kangleichal Ayang Leima, general secretary of Nupi Samaj Ramani, president of CLK Tampha Leima, adviser of CLK Langdon and vice-president of Nupi Samaj Jamini Chungkham as the dais members.

The gatherings offered floral tributes to the framed photograph of freedom fighter Rani Gaidinliu.

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