Governor opens Memorial Complex dedicated to unsung heroes
Fitting tributes paid on Patriots' Day
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, August 13 2021:
The State observed Patriots' Day in memory of the heroes who sacrificed their lives in the Anglo-Manipuri War, 1891 .
Governor Ganga Prasad Chaurasia and Chief Minister N Biren Singh led others in paying floral tributes at Kangla Utra and Shaheed Minar, Bir Tikendrajit Park.
A contingent of Manipur Rifles sounded the last post and offered gun salutes to the martyrs.
The Chief Minister, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs and others also paid floral tributes at Hicham Yaichampat, Moirangkhom, where Bir Tikendrajit was cremated and at Thangal General Temple Complex, Palace Compound.
On the occasion, Ganga Prasad Chaurasia inaugurated the Memorial Complex dedicated to the exiled martyrs of the Anglo-Manipuri War 1891 at Bir Tikendrajit Park.
The names of the unsung heroes who fought valiantly against the mighty British and later exiled to Andaman and Nicobar Islands are engraved on the Memorial Stone unveiled today.
Later, artistes of Roop Raag performed the first rendition of the State Song "Sana Leibak Manipur" written by renowned lyricist late B Jayantakumar Sharma and composed by Aribam Syam Sharma.
It may be mentioned that the State Cabinet adopted "Sana Leibak Manipur" as the State song of Manipur recently.
While addressing media persons, the Governor reminded the people that they should not forget the supreme sacrifices made by 'our heroes who fought valiantly against British colonialism.
"On this occasion, let us pledge to work towards inclusive development and welfare of the people," he added.
He further mentioned that every Indian must work to fulfil the aspirations of Prime Minister Narendra Modi such as Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), Make in India initiative etc.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh said that the Memorial Complex inaugurated today is a tribute to all the unsung heroes who were exiled to Andaman and Nicobar islands after the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891."We must not forget those exiled martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice for the sovereignty of our motherland," the CM said and continued that this day reminds all of the courage and selfless sacrifices of the forefathers who fought the mighty British.
The Chief Minister stated that there is a sense of unity among the communities living in the State despite speaking different languages and following different religions.
Maintaining that there would be development only when there is peace, he appealed to all to uphold the unity and integrity of the Nation.
It may be mentioned that the observance began with 'Prabhat Phery' which commenced from DIPR Office, Keishampat at 4 am.
Patriotic songs were also played at various locations of Imphal East and Imphal West.
It may also be noted that the District Administrations of all districts also observed Patriots' Day at their respective District Headquarters.