Khongjom comes alive with spirit of martyrs
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Thoubal/Imphal, April 23 2026: Khongjom Day was observed today at the Khongjom War Memorial at Khebaching, Khongjom in Thoubal district, paying rich tributes to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the motherland during the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 .

The event was held under tight security measures, coinciding with the ban imposed on Chief Minister Y Khemchand and the ruling MLAs from participating by the women's wing of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) .

Graced by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand as the chief guest and president respectively, the programme included paying tributes to the martyrs, such as wreathlaying and the offering of tarpan.

Khongjom comes alive with spirit of martyrs

The Governor and the Chief Minister led the dignitaries in the ceremonial laying of wreaths at the Khongjom War Memorial, followed by guard of honour, general salute, reverse arms, sounding of the last post, two minutes' silence, slope arms and order arms.

Floral wreaths were also laid at the statue of Paona Brajabashi, followed by a gun salute in his honour.

Tarpan was offered at the Khongjom River.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor stated that Khongjom Day, observed on April 23, remains a significant and emotional occasion, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of the sons of Manipur who fought valiantly against the British Empire.

The Governor highlighted that the Battle of Khongjom symbolises honour, patriotism, and unwavering determination, where Manipuri warriors, despite being outnumbered and ill-equipped, chose courage over surrender to defend their sovereignty.

Maintaining that Khongjom Day is not only a day of remembrance but also of reflection, Bhalla emphasised the importance of unity, self-respect, and resilience in the face of challenges.

He noted that the sacrifices of the forefathers serve as a reminder that freedom and peace must be protected and upheld with responsibility.

The Governor called upon the people to uphold values such as integrity in public life, communal harmony, respect for the rule of law and commitment to the welfare of all citizens as true tributes to the legacy of the martyrs.

He stressed that true patriotism lies in building an inclusive and progressive society, empowering youth, and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Manipur, urging the people to work collectively for peace, development, and a stronger Manipur.

He called on every citizen to draw inspiration from the spirit of Khongjom and renew their commitment to serve the State and the Nation with dedication.

Delivering his speech, Chief Minister Y Khemchand said that the people of the State feel proud to live as Manipuri due to the bravery shown by 'our forefathers', while fighting for their motherland during the Anglo-Manipur War 1891.He mentioned Maharaj Kulachandra, Yuvraj Tikendrajit, Paona Brajabashi, Chongtha Mia, Chinglensana and other brave warriors, whose supreme sacrifice and unwavering contributions towards defending the sovereignty of their motherland keep the integrity of Manipur still intact.

Recalling the unfortunate Tronglaobi incident, the Chief Minister expressed profound grief and sorrow.

He informed that the Government had held talks with the Joint Action Committee and victim families on different occasions and proposed to extend all possible assistance.

The Chief Minister stated that the Government has been taking all possible measures to uncover the truth behind the Tronglaobi incidents and appealed to the people to cooperate in this effort.

Acknowledging that the people are staging protest at different places, due to the sorrow and resentment caused by the unfortunate incident, he appealed to the public not to resort to activities which would hinder developmental works and bring hardship and enmity among the people.

Khemchand also thanked the people for making it possible to observe the Khongjom Day successfully, amidst protests staged across the State.

Earlier, the observation commenced with Sankritan presented by the artistes of Manipur State Kala Akademi.

The programme also featured rendition of the National song by artistes of Shri Shri Bal Mukunda Dev Music College, followed by the National Anthem by the 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles band.

After the chief guest and the president took their respective seats, an opening song titled Manipur "Sheitharol" was presented by Khumanthem Sundari Devi and her party.

Later, Khongjom Parva was performed by Khumanthem Sundari Devi and her party, followed by a drama titled ''Paona" staged by Rup Mahal Theatre.

Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Art and Culture Minister Kh Loken Singh, MLAs of different Assembly Constituencies, high ranking civil, police and Army officials and general public also attended the occasion.