Seminar revisits Anglo-Manipuri War 1891
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 14 2023:
A one-day National seminar on Anglo-Manipuri War 1891 was held today at the Central Museum of Manipur University (MU) .
The seminar organised by MU Central Museum and the History Department was attended by MU Vice-Chancellor Prof N Lokendra, HoD of History Prof H Sudhirkumar, Dean of School of Social Sciences Prof Th Purnima and Curator of MU Central Museum Dr Meesala Ramakrishna as presidium members.
Speaking at the event, Prof N Lokendra said that Anglo-Manipuri War was an important event which took place in between the medieval and modern period of Manipur history.
The Anglo-Manipur War was fought against the British to protect the native aristocracy and sovereignty of Manipur, he added.
There was a stark difference in military might, tech- nology, manpower and logistics between Manipur and the British side, the Vice Chancellor said and added that the battle, nonetheless, was fought by the kingdom of Manipur despite knowing that defeat was inevitable.
A new political system emerged in Manipur after the Union Jack was hoisted on April 27, 1891, he added.
Following the defeat in Anglo-Manipuri War, Churachand ascended the throne and was also chosen as the president of Manipur State Durbar but he wasn't given any political or financial responsibilities, Prof N Lokendra said and added that British however allowed Maharaj Churachand to take socio-political decisions.
He said that modernisation of culture, art, literature and language of Manipur began during the reign of Maharaj Churachand with the emergence of several educated elites.
Manipur merged with India in 1949 and got Statehood in 1972, the Vice-Chancellor added.
Later, a photo exhibition on 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' was also held.