'Rani Gaidinliu story will find permanent place in our literature'
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, February 01 2015: Despite the differences in languages, dresses and food habits, there is an obvious sense of cultural affinity.

Though, I hail from Goa I feel like a Manipuri.

This was stated by Governor of Goa, Mridula Sinha, while speaking at the birth centenary celebration of national freedom fighter Padmabushan Rani Gaidinliu hosted by Kalyan Ashram, Manipur at Iboyaima Shumang Leela Shanglen, Palace Compound today.

Sinha observed that the centenary celebration of the legendary freedom fighter of Manipur is being held at the national level and such commemorative functions are being held in 60 locations spread all over the country.

Mentioning that the lamp lit at the start of the function will be kept burning till it concludes, she exhorted the participants to propagate the message of selflessness shown by the lamp to the society.

birth centenary celebration of national freedom fighter Padmabushan Rani Gaidinliu

She described Rani Gaidinliu as a true patriot whose spirit was driven by the commitment of saving her motherland.

Her sacrifices and courage are laudable and her story will find a permanent place in books like the texts of the holy Gita, she stated.

Her role as a mother and the social responsibilities she took were designed to benefit the people of Manipur, Sinha stated adding that Kalyan Ashram, Manipur was inspired by the same motive while organising the function.

Titular king of Manipur, Leishemba Sanajaoba stated that Rani Gaidinliu was an influential socio religious leader and a freedom fighter.

The legendary figure was sent to earth by the Heavenly Father for the sake of the people so that peace and unity prevail and we should try to emulate her sacrificial spirit, he stated.

Prof Gangmumei Kamei, mahila pramukh of Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram Madhavi Joshi, Shantakka, Ramkuiwangbe, Dr T Bilashimi attended the function as the main invitees.

Homage was paid to Rani Gaidinliu by the band platoon of the 1st MR by playing the national anthem.

The event also featured the presentation of cultural programmes by many troupes.