Death anniv of Bhagyachandra
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 14 2015: The people of the current generation must put in effort to enhance the significance of the physical, political and cultural legacies left behind by Rajarshi Bhagyachadra, said Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam.

He was speaking at the opening ceremony of the three-day observation of the 217th death anniversary of the late king at Shree Shree Anu Mahaprabhu temple, Nabadwip Dham in Nadia district of West Bengal.

The observation is jointly organised by Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Cultural Foundation, Manipur and Nabadwip Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Cultural Foundation, Kolkata.

Gaikhangam said that during his reign as the ruler of Manipur, Rajarshi Bhagyachandra developed a sacred religious site at Nabadwip Dham for the pilgrims and people of Manipur.

Acknowledging the cultural and religious contributions of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra, the name of the late king is mentioned in the text books published by the West Bengal Government for the students up to Class VI while a road near Nabadwip Dham has been named as Manipuri road, he said.

As such, every Manipuri must put in effort to propagate the contributions of the late king, who was known for his spiritual ability, he said.

Apart from physical and political capabilities, one also needs spiritual powers to become a complete man, Gaikhangam said that Rajarshi Bhagyachandra was a religious and social reformer.

Maintaining that spirituality also plays a major role in maintaining peace in a State or a country, Gaikhangam remembered Rajarshi Bhagyachadra as a ruler who tried to maintain unity between hill and valley people through spiritual means.

He expressed belief that peace and tranquility would be restored in Manipur if the people follow the ideals of the king.

Saying that Rajarshi Bhagyachandra was the pioneer of cultural revolution of Manipur, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the people of the current generation must nurture the rich cultural legacies he has left.

Saying that the State Government is yet to take up any major development work at Manipuris' pilgrimage site at Nabadwip Dham due to lack of communication, Gaikhangam assured the gathering that he would do the needful now in consultation with the Chief Minister.

Gaikhangam also asked the management of the site to submit a memorandum mentioning needful development works to the State Government.

Sagolband AC MLA RK Imo who attended the function as president urged all concerned to collectively take the responsibility of preserving the cultural ethos of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra.

He also remembered Bhagyachandra who introduced the famous Ras Lila to the world.

All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) president Wangkhemcha Shamjai also attended the function.

The dignitaries watched Wari Leeba, Krishna Bhaila Lila, Aharatri and Rupmahal Theatre's play, 'Rajarshi Bhagyachandra' at the function.

Later, different cultural troupes presented Sankirtan, Nata Sankirtan, Goura Lila and Kunja Ras.

Lifetime Sevak, Goura Lila, Rajdhari, Shutradhari and Sankirtan certificates were given to eight persons.

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