Patriotic spirit continues to burn in every Manipuri: Governor
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, August 13 2025: Remembering the valour of Yuvraj Bir Tikendrajit, Thangal General and others who laid down their lives in defending the sovereignty of their motherland, the patriotic spirit in all Manipuri people continues to burn brightly even to this day, said Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.

Governor Ajay Bhalla led the people in paying tributes to Anglo-Manipuri War heroes, on occasion of Patriots' Day 2025.The Governor's better half, MLAs, chief secretary, security advisor, DGP and other civil and police officers also paid tributes to the warriors.

The observance started with floral tributes at Heecham Yaicham Pat, Moirangkhom and Thangal Temple, Palace Compound in the morning.

Patriotic spirit continues to burn in every Manipuri: Governor

Later in the afternoon, the Governor with other dignitaries attended the wreath laying ceremony at Kangla Uttra, followed by tribute event at Saheed Minar, where the Governor accompanied by MLAs and senior government officers, honoured the brave souls who laid down their lives in defence of Manipur's sovereignty.

A Guard of Honour along with gun salute was accorded by contingents of Manipur Rifles.

Floral tribute was also offered at the Memorial Stone of the exiled martyrs of the 1891 War.

Speaking at the event held at BT Park, Governor Ajay honoured the brave heroes who laid down their lives in the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891, a pivotal moment in Manipur's history where both the valley and the hills fought together.

He highlighted the courage and sacrifice of Yuvaraj Bir Tikendrajit, Thangal General, Paona Brajabashi, and countless unnamed warriors who stood firm against the British, defending the dignity and sovereignty of their motherland.

He emphasised that their unwavering spirit and moral courage continue to inspire generations.

The Governor continued that Patriots' Day is not merely about remembering the past but carrying forward the ideals for which our heroes laid down their lives.

The true tribute to the martyrs is not only offering floral tributes but in ensuring that their resilience and patriotism continue to unite the people.

He further said that the state is now at the crossroads where the lessons of our past must shape the future.

The state has faced many challenges in recent times but the courage and the resilience of our people continue to inspire hope, peace and stability in the state.

Governor Ajay then urged the people to renew the pledge, follow the ideals of our forefathers, strengthen the bond of unity and to work together for a stronger, peaceful and prosperous Manipur.

He said: "Unity is our greatest shield and the youth our most powerful weapon for change.

The state is in close collaboration with the central government and communities to restore peace, advancing development and promoting inclusive development across the state".

Chief secretary Dr Puneet Kumar Goel, who presided over the observance, opined that the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891 highlights the unwavering spirits and the moral stand of Manipur's warriors against the British.

The day serves as a reminder of the values of freedom, unity and the ongoing commitment to the progress and the development of the state.

The courage and the resilience of the people of Manipur inspire hope for peace and stability despite recent challenges.

He continued that Manipur's diversity is the strength and unity is essential for building a better future.

He then urged the youth to contribute to a peaceful and prosperous Manipur, upholding values of courage, integrity and unity.

The state government is committed to education, healthcare and infrastructure development also with youth empowerment to foster inclusive growth and strengthen governance, he asserted.

As part of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, the Governor led the people in taking a pledge to stand united in the fight against the growing menace of drug abuse in the state.

Patriots' Day commemorates all those who sacrificed their lives while defying the British Raj in 1891 .

The Manipuris put up a brave resistance against the three columns of the army, which were deployed by the then British government to take control of the independent princely state of Manipur after the death of then Maharaja Chandrakirti Singh in 1886.After the British had won the war, they arrested those who had been involved in trying to defend their land, and sentenced the key figures to death.

On August 13, 1891, Yuvraj Bir Tikendrajit, Thangal General, and Paona Brajabasi were hanged at Pheidabung, present day Bir Tikendrajit Park, while Bir Tikendrajit was cremated at Heecham Yaicham Pat, Moirangkhom.

Bir Tikendrajit, the crown prince and commander of the Manipuri army, along with Thangal General, led the resistance against British forces.

After the British victory, several leaders were captured, and publicly hanged for "waging war against the Queen" .

The day commemorates Manipur's resistance to colonial rule and the sacrifices made for its sovereignty.

It remains one of the most significant observances in Manipur.