79th Hiroshima Day, 2024 observed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 06 2024: The 79th Hiroshima Day, 2024 was observed at the Loktak Hall of Manipur Press Club in a ceremony organised by the Indo Japan Friendship Association, Manipur today.

The event was graced by Khongbantabam Ibomcha, MLA, Lamlai Assembly Constituency; Professor Ratankumar, former Head of Department, English Department, Manipur University and Sahitya Akademi Awardee Sharatchand Thiyam as the chief guest, functional president and guest of honour respectively.

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Kh Ibomcha recalled that during World War II Japanese soldiers ventured into Manipur and many of them perished here.

Thus, every year, their Japanese descendants visit their burial sites/cemetery to pay their respects with the offering of flowers and prayers.

The "Pureiromba Khubam" at Keibi Khunjao is one such site, said the MLA.

He also recalled the atomic bombing of Japan when the United States of America dropped "Little Boy" on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 .

It was followed by the dropping of yet another atom bomb "Fat Man" at Nagasaki on August 9, 1945, claiming the lives of hundreds of thousands of people.

On August 15, 1945, Japanese soldiers surrendered and World War II officially came to an end.

The Japanese have since observed Hiroshima Day on August 6 to commemorate the tragic anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.

They also come to Manipur to pay their respects to their fallen ancestors on the occasion, continued the MLA.

As a part of the ceremony, cash prizes and certificates were distributed to the winners of the drawing competition held on the topic "Peaceful town, what peace means to me".

The gathering also extended their heartfelt condolences for the fallen Japanese soldiers of WWII.

Separately, the Dalit Sahitya Academy, Manipur also observed the 79th Hiroshima Day, 2024 at India Peace Memorial Park, Maiba Lotpa Ching today.

Members of the Academy offered a floral tribute around 7 am to honour the Japanese soldiers.

In addition, they joined the observance of 79th Hiroshima Day by Indo Japan Friendship Association, Manipur at the Manipur Press Club.

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