Khongjom Day observed widely with tributes and cultural programmes
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal/Kakching, April 23 2026: The 135th observance of Khongjom Day, commemorating the martyrs of the Anglo-Manipuri War.

was marked at various places across Manipur and beyond on Thursday, with floral tributes, cultural programmes, and calls to uphold the legacy of the forefathers.

At Kakching Khunyai, the observance was held at Shri Shri Radha Madhava Mandop, Kakching Khunyai, organised by the Harinam Sankrita Jagya Mandali, Kakching Khunyai Leikai.

The programme was attended by local elders Naorem Manihar, Mayanglambam Iboyaima and Mayanglambam Ibobi, as presidium members.

The gathering paid floral tributes to the martyrs who fought valiantly for the motherland.

Speakers at the event recalled the sacrifices and contributions of the brave forefathers and urged the younger generation to honour their legacy by preserving and upholding the values they stood for.

In Tripura, similar observances were held in West Tripura and Khowai districts, where floral tributes were offered to the bust of Paona Brajabashi at different locations.

A drama book titled "Paona" authored by Manipuri writer Achouba Yumnam, was also released on the occasion.

The programmes were organised by the Puthiba Welfare and Cultural Society, Paona Foundation Tripura, Reaform Manipur, and Manipuri Literary Cultural Forum, Gouranagar.

As part of the celebrations, Anima Khumanthem, who had won three gold medals in dance from Manipur University, was felicitated.

The observance also featured traditional Thang-Ta demonstrations and patriotic dance performances.

In Assam, the day was observed by Paona Ningshing Lup (PANIL), Udharbond, with floral tributes offered at the statue of Paona Brajabashi at Pangram in Cachar district.

The programme was attended by PANIL president, Jagada Nanda Sharma; Social Worker N Budhachandra; Manipuri Language Advisory Board member Dr KN Chand; Shillong Manipuri Students' Union president Piyalini Rajkumari; and UPF advisor Kh Ratan, among others.

Speaking on the occasion, UPF advisor, Khomdram Ratan stated that the forefathers had sacrificed their lives with courage and dignity for the sake of future generations.

He expressed concern over the present condition of Manipur, remarking that people today live in fear and uncertainty.

He stressed that the current government needs to revisit history, draw lessons from the sacrifices of the past, and work with courage for the betterment of the State.

He further asserted that movements rooted in truth can never be suppressed by any force in the world, and urged leaders the need to work in accordance with the sentiments of the people.

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