CM releases souvenir on 228th death anniv of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra
'Kings used to spend 100 days in the hills in a year'
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 06 2026: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh today released a bilingual Burmese-Manipuri souvenir commemorating the 228th death anniversary of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra at a function held at the Durbar Hall, Chief Minister's Secretariat, Babupura, Imphal.

The souvenir has been brought out by the Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Cultural Foundation, Manipur, in association with the Indo-Myanmar Fraternal Alliance, and is to be distributed during the Punyatithi observance of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra scheduled to be held in Mandalay, Myanmar, on October 13, said a statement issued by the CM's Secretariat.

CM releases souvenir on 228th death anniv of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra

On the occasion, the Chief Minister said that most kings of Manipur spent around 100 days a year in the hills, according to historical accounts.

He said such historical experiences were significant in understanding the role played by elders in bringing together different communities, facilitating interaction among them and strengthening the idea of a united Manipur.

Khemchand said the historical and cultural presence of Manipur extends beyond the present geographical boundaries of the State.

He said elders in places including Assam, Dimapur and Meghalaya preserved a place and identity for Manipur, including through institutions and settlements known as Rajbari.

He added that the recognition of Manipur's historical presence outside the State is a matter of pride for its people.

Highlighting the legacy of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra, the Chief Minister said the title "Rajarshi" reflected that he was not only a king but also a spiritual leader.

As a visionary ruler, Rajarshi Bhagyachandra played a seminal role in introducing and establishing Ras Lila, which has become one of the most distinguished cultural traditions of Manipur.

He said Manipuri Ras Lila's contribution to India's classical dance tradition is widely recognised, adding that the cultural heritage of Manipur has an important place in the broader tradition of Indian classical performing arts.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the longstanding historical relationship between Manipur and Assam.

He said the geographical proximity of the two regions, along with historical links established through the marriage of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra's daughter, helped strengthen ties between the people of Manipur and Assam.

He noted that a book had also been published documenting the historical role played by Rajarshi Bhagyachandra's daughter in strengthening ties with the people of the erstwhile Ahom Kingdom in Assam.

Khemchand said such historical connections demonstrate the close cultural and social ties established between the people of Manipur and neighbouring regions.

He said these bonds are among the legacies of the visionary leadership of the kings of Manipur.

Khemchand, meanwhile, said peaceful coexistence among all communities is essential for the development of Manipur.

Referring to the impact of the conflict that began on May 3, 2023, Khemchand said the Government and people of Manipur have endured considerable collateral damage, particularly in the economic sphere.

He said the prolonged crisis had led to a decline of more than Rs 1,200 crore in GST revenue, while frequent bandhs and blockades have further affected economic activity.

The Chief Minister said the impact of such disruptions is mostly felt by daily wage earners and other sections dependent on regular economic activity.

He appealed to the people and civil society organisations not to resort to bandhs and blockades and advised that differences and grievances be addressed through dialogue and appealed to everyone to contribute towards conveying and strengthening the message of peace, coexistence and development.

Among those present at the function were Indo-Myanmar Fraternal Alliance president RK Shivachandra Singh; Gita Sanman awardee Kakchingtabam Brajamani Sharma; Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Cultural Foundation, Manipur president RK Jitendrajit Singh; and general secretary Th Dhanakumar Singh, among others.