134th Exile Day observed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 24 2024: Forum for Protection of Heritage of 23 Unsung Heroes, 1891 (Andaman Chapter) observed the 134th Exile Day at the Memorial Complex of Exiled Heroes of Anglo-Manipuri War, 1891, located on the southern side of BT Park, Imphal on Saturday.

The event was attended by Waikhom Birahari Singh, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Government of Manipur and Usham Bihari Singh, president, Forum for Protection of Heritage of 23 Unsung Heroes (Manipur Chapter, 1891) as presidium members.

Speaking on the occasion, Waikhom Birahari Singh said that the Forum has taken a good step by organising the event to remember and pay tribute to the unsung heroes who were exiled to Andaman & Nicobar Islands after Anglo-Manipuri War, 1891.He asserted that everyone should acknowledge and remember the sacrifices & bravery of the brave heroes who fought bravely against the mighty British empire for Manipur's independence.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr N Dinesh, Assistant Professor, History Department, Biramangol College, stressed on the need to designate a day to commemorate the sacrifice & contributions of the unsung heroes of Manipur.

He urged the Government to declare November 23 as Exile Day, to mark the day brave heroes of Manipur including Maharaj Kulachandra reached Port Blair in Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Dr N Dinesh also called for constructing a memorial in Andaman, particularly at the location where the 23 unsung heroes stayed, to allow visitors to pay their respects.

Organizing Committee convenor Chongtham Tomba said that after the decisive Anglo-Manipuri War 1891, many brave heroes were killed, imprisoned and sent to exile in Andaman.

Highlighting that many brave heroes who were exiled continue to remain nameless, he emphasized the importance of observing a day to remember these unsung heroes and setting up a memorial in Andaman.

Offering of floral tributes to the brave heroes and sword salute by members of Eastern Arts & Culture Foundation, Arapti, Imphal East were the other highlights of the event.

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