'World Heritage Day' observed
Source: The Sangai Express / PIB

Imphal, April 18 2022: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) celebrated World Heritage Day with a simple function at the Vishnu Temple at Bishnupur.

A rally, drawing competition and Swacchta activities were carried out at the recently renovated temple, which is the only ASI-protected monument in the State.

The Bishnupur Temple of Vishnu is one of the oldest known-brick temples in Manipur.

The temple was built during the reign of King Kyamba (1457-1508 CE) of Manipur.

It is believed that he constructed this temple after receiving a Vishnu emblem from neighbouring Shan King (Upper Burma) .

Under the supervision of Sh Ramakrishna Reddy, Superintending Archaeologist, Aizawl Circle, the ASI recently completed conservation, development and providing of amenities at the temple.

The work, which took 6 months to complete, includes construction of boundary walls, solar lighting and laying of garden etc.

'World Heritage Day' observed

The ASI is marking the day by organizing events across the country at its monuments.

Free entry has also been arranged at all ASI-protected sites and monuments today.

Also a 'Heritage Tour' organised in connection with the observation of World Heritage Day 2022 was flagged off from Kangla Uttra Sanglen today.

The heritage tour which was organised by the Manipur State Archaeology Department of Art and Culture, Govt of Manipur was flagged off by M Joy, Commissioner of Art and Culture.

The tour which was participated by students who aspire to preserve the cultural heritage of the State was led by N Indramani, president of the Historical and Cultural Research Centre, Imphal, officials of the centre and State Archaeology Department.

In today's heritage tour, prominent places of the State including the Memorial complex of exiled heroes of Anglo-Manipur War 1891 at Bir Tikendrajit Park, Sanamahi Temple at 1st MR complex, Thangal General Temple at Palace Compound, Konthoujam Lairembi Compound at Sagoltongba Mayai Leikai, Radha Raman Temple at Canchipur, Samadhi of Maharaja Gambhir Singh at Langthabal, Kongjom War Memorial complex were covered and was concluded at Kangla Fort.

Director of Art and Culture Department, L Kishorjit Singh also attended the tour.