Students come together to pay homage to 1891 heroes
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 13 2026: Recalling the valour and sacrifice of the Manipuri ancestors who fought in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, the 135th Patriots' Day was observed across Manipur and beyond today.

As in other parts of the State, the All Manipur Students' Union (AMSU), Manipuri Students' Federation (MSF), Democratic Students' Alliance of Manipur (DESAM), Kangleipak Students' Association (KSA), Students' Union of Kangleipak (SUK), and Apunba Ireipakki Maheiroi Sinpanglup (AIMS) observed the 135th Patriots' Day at GP Women's College.

Students come together to pay homage to 1891 heroes

The observance was graced by GP Women's College Principal Longjam Rajen, Head of the Manipuri Department Dr Waikhom Romesh, and coordinator of the six student organisations, Hijam Roshan, who is also the president of MSF, as presidium members.

The highlight of the programme was the offering of floral tributes to the photographs of Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General.

At the function, Hijam Roshan paid homage to the forefathers who fought against the British during the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 and recalled their sacrifices for the protection of Manipur's sovereignty.

He said that elected representatives need to have a strong sense of patriotism and remain committed to safeguarding the interests and aspirations of the people.

Claiming that Manipur has been facing various issues due to the policies and programmes of the Government of India, he said that the suffering of the people would continue if the elected representatives of the State fail to take a firm stand on issues concerning the State and its people.

A meira (torch) rally was also taken out this evening in honour of the heroes of the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 .

Organised by Apunba Manipur Kanba Ima Lup (AMKIL), All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj (Nupi Samaj), and All Manipur Tammi Chingmi Apunba Nupi Lup (Tammi Chingmi), the rally commenced from Wahengbam Leikai and proceeded towards Khwairamband Keithel and Mapal Kangjeibung.

At Shaheed Minar, the rallyists offered floral tributes and lit candles in honour of the patriots who laid down their lives during the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 .

From Shaheed Minar, the rally proceeded back towards Khwairamband Keithel and Wahengbam Leikai before heading to Keishampat, Keishamthong and Yaiskul, where the rallyists paid tributes at Hicham Yaichampat.

The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) also observed Patriots' Day at the Manipur State Assembly and Archives, Old Assembly Secretariat, today.

The event, which honoured the legacy of the Manipuri ancestors who laid down their lives in defence of the erstwhile kingdom, was graced by Editor of The Sangai Express (Manipuri edition) Khogendra Khomdram as chief guest, Managing Director of Thangjam Agro Industries Thangjam Joykumar as special guest, IDS Chairman Prof N Mohendro as president, and social worker Rajkumar Dilip Singh as resource person.

Khogendra said that Patriots' Day used to be observed in almost every locality and school across Manipur, but the practice has seemingly declined over the years.

Saying that schools play a very important role in instilling a sense of patriotism among students, he added that it is the responsibility of teachers to nurture such values and help students understand the significance of the sacrifices made by the patriots.

Nurturing a sense of patriotism among students is important, he said and maintained that he could not remain seated whenever he hears the National anthem, Jana Gana Mana, owing to the values and lessons instilled in him during childhood.

Being a patriot does not necessarily mean serving in the armed forces, he said, adding that people who work sincerely and diligently in their respective professions also contribute to the progress and well-being of the State and its people.