'Save motherland again': Khongjom Day revives 1891 spirit amid crisis
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 23 2026: Khongjom Day was observed across the Satte today, commemorating the valor and sacrifice of heroes who laid down their lives in the historic Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891 .

Khongjom Day Trust Committee

The Khongjom Day Trust Committee, Langthabal Kendra marked the anniversary of the 1891 Battle of Khongjom with a solemn ceremony at Langthabal today.

The event honored martyrs who died defending Manipur's sovereignty against the British Empire.

It began with floral tributes to portraits of the brave warriors, followed by a two-minute silence led by chief patron Karam Nabakishore.

In his address, Nabakishore stressed that while State-level events occur at the Khongjom War Memorial, the Trust's local observance ensures the martyrs' legacy reaches every household.

Drawing parallels to Manipur's ongoing sociopolitical challenges since May 3, 2023, he said, "Our ancestors fought with bravery against a global superpower to save our motherland.

Today, the youth of Manipur are once again called to defend our territorial integrity against external threats and the activities of Kuki-Narco elements that seek to disrupt our unity".

He appealed for peace after nearly three years of unrest, expressed grief over a recent incident claiming five lives, and urged collective action to prevent such tragedies.

"The true tribute to the 4891 martyrs is the preservation of a united and peaceful Manipur", he added.

Prominent attendees included State Awardee Oinam Brajendro, Wahengbam Nabachandra, and K Rajamani, The event ended with a pledge by Langthabal AC clubs, Meira Paibis, and local groups to uphold the values of bravery and sacrifice.

Sahitya Thoupang Lup

In a significant event blending historical remembrance with literary appreciation, the Sahitya Thoupang Lup, Imphal, organized the joint observance of the 135th Khongjom Day and World Book Day today at the Manipur Press Club, Majorkhul.

The programme began with floral tributes to Paona Brajabashi and other martyrs of the Anglo-Manipuri War.

To acknowledge the ongoing hardships in the State, attendees observed a two-minute silence in memory of those who have lost their lives in the recent unrest.

The event was graced by dignitaries, including Prof S Lanchenba Meetei, Principal, DM College of Arts and Dean, School of Humanities, DM University; Tongbram Amarjit Singh, president, Sahitya Thoupang Lup; and Sharatchand Thiyam, advisor to Sahitya Thoupang Lup.

"Khongjom Day is not just a date.

It reminds us of the profound love for one's motherland and re-ignites the spirit of our ancestors", Prof Lanchenba said.

Sharatchand Thiyam said Manipur is passing through an extremely difficult and unstable period where peace remains elusive.

He added that the bravery shown against the British Empire should inspire the current generation.

"The spirit of the Khongjom martyrs must flow through the veins of every citizen to safeguard the State's future" he said.

Marking World Book Day, the event underscored literature's role in guiding society.

The Heisnam Basantakumar Award 2026 was conferred on Jatishore Tongbram.

Dr Thokchom Kamala's book "Manipuri Noun and Adjective Generator", written in Hindi script, was also released.

Sahitya Akademi Awardee Birendrajit Naorem chaired a poetry session where poets presented works dedicated to the martyrs and the motherland.

The event ended with a call for unity, urging the literary community and public to use knowledge and history to navigate Manipur's challenges.

BJP Manipur Pradesh

BJP Manipur Pradesh observed the 135th Khongjom Day at its Nitayipat Chuthek head office.

State president A Sharda Devi led party workers in paying floral tributes to the 1891 martyrs.

At the event, Sharda Devi highlighted the day's role in remembering Manipuri patriotism and ensuring the heroes' legacy inspires youth.

She called for unity and collective efforts toward State progress and peace, echoing the martyrs' spirit.

Party leaders and members attended the tribute ceremony.

Thang-Ta Cultural Association The Huyen Lallong Manipur Thang-Ta Cultural Association, Irilbung, observed Khongjom Day on its campus.

Padma Shri K Sanathoiba Sharma, director of the association, led the event.

Martial artists, students, and staff offered floral tributes to portraits of martyrs including Paona Brajabashi.

Sanathoiba emphasized recalling ancestral valor, describing Thang-Ta as the "soul of Meitei society" and core to Manipur's identity.

He urged the younger generation to carry forward the legacy of bravery and sacrifice.

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