Befitting tributes paid to Khongjom martyrs
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, April 23 2022:
In remembrance of the ultimate sacrifice made by the Bravehearts of Manipur in the Anglo-Manipuri War-1891, Khongjom Day was observed by offering floral tributes to the martyrs at Kheba-Ching, Khongjom in Thoubal district on Saturday.
The observance started with guard of honour and gun salute at the memorial site of Paona Brajabasi, who sacrificed his life during the final battle of Anglo-Manipuri War fought in the year 1891 .
The state has been observing the day on April 23 every year.
Floral tributes were also offered with traditional rituals and tarpan at Khongjom River as part of the observance.
Governor La Ganesan, chief minister N Biren, ministers, MLAs and other top officials of the government attended the event.
Rajya Sabha MP & titular king of Manipur Leishemba Sanajaoba, Manipur Legislative Assembly speaker Th Satyabrata and BJP Manipur Pradesh president A Sharda were also among other dignitaries who attended the tribute event.
Speaking as chief guest at the main event, Governor La Ganesan maintained that life is sacrifice and sacrifice is life.
The sacrifices made by the forefathers should always be remembered and honoured.
"We should follow their footsteps and their dignity should remain protected.
Conquering the heart of the people is also a unique character of our leaders which we should learn from them", he said.
La Ganesan further stated that India is a land of diversity which makes the country unique from others.
Likewise, Manipur also has a different character of history amongst the Indian states.
People should understand the reason why Khongjom Day is being celebrated, he added.
Giving his presidential speech, chief minister N Biren said, "The age-old history of Manipur and sacrifices made by our forefathers will always remain in our hearts.
The present historical site of Khongjom particularly Tengol Lampak will be beautified and upgraded soon after taking a cabinet decision" .
"The call of Nation First and United India which was advocated by our leaders should be respected.
Being a federal country the respect given to the states by the Centre is worth appreciation.
The renaming of Mount Harriet in Andaman and Nicobar Islands as Mount Manipur by union home minister Amit Shah is a living example of respect to Manipur by the union government," Biren added.
Khongjom Lal, a play based on the battle of Khongjom, 1891 was also performed by the artistes of Art & Culture Department as part of the observance.
Khongjom Parba, a traditional folk song that recounts event of Khongjom battle, was also presented to the gathering by renowned folk singer Sundari Devi and her team.
Puthiba Welfare and Cultural Society and Paona Brajabasi Foundation also jointly organised the 131st memorial anniversary of Major Paona Brajabasi at Abhoynagar in Tripura with offering of rich floral tributes to the martyrs on Saturday.
Society president N Niranjan, cultural activist N Bira, social activist Jyoshna Devi and secretary S Deepak Kumar attended the programme as presidium members.
Marup daily joint editor RK Tarunjit spoke on the Anglo-Manipuri War 1891 while Khumanthem Anima presented Khongjom Parba.
Manipuri Literary and Cultural Forum in association with Paona Brajabashi Foundation also observed the day at Gouranagar, Khowai in Tripura.
Forum president N Bira and writer S Khelamohan Sen spoke on the occasion.
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