Manipur observed the 133rd Khongjom Day on Tuesday commemorating the historic Battle of Khongjom in 1891 at the Khongjom War Memorial Complex, Kheba Ching in Thoubal district.

Governor Anusuiya Uikey and Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh led the people in paying floral tributes to the brave souls who fought against the British in the Khongjom Battle of the Anglo-Manipuri War.

Speaking at the event, CM N. Biren said that the courage and love for their motherland can still be seen in the people of today’s generation but lacks the sense of unity.

He said that if we unite today, we can follow the footsteps of our courageous and brave souls who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of the state. He recalled that our brave ancestors fought for their motherland against the mighty British even after knowing that they would lose the war.

Khongjom day is observed to pay tribute and homage to those warriors who laid down their lives for the freedom of the state, he added.

CM appealed to the people to cooperate in reviving peace and normalcy in the state by uniting the indigenous people of different communities residing in the state. He said that it is high time for the people of the state to help in bringing peace to save the native people of the state.

1st Manipur Rifles also paid gun salute during the event.

The Governor and CM led the attendees in paying floral tributes to the statue of Paona Brajabashi and also paid floral tributes to the brave souls at Khongjom river. Manipur State Kala Academy artists chanted sankirtan while paying tributes to the martyrs.

Cabinet ministers, MLAs, chief secretary, DGP, police officials and other officials of different departments of the state attended the observance.

In connection with the observance of 133rd Khongjom Day, Sharma Arts and Crafts House (SACH) organised a one-day Khongjom Day Memorial Lecture at its premises located at Khongman Zone-III, Imphal East on Tuesday.

Speaking on the sidelines of the programme, secretary cum managing director of SACH Bhramacharimayum Banamali Sharma said the programme is organised in connection with roles that have been taken by the artiste and artist during the critical crisis that had been occurring since the past.

During the programme director, actor and writer Khwairakpam Bishwamitra; cultural activist and lyricist Loitongbam Brajamohon; director and lyricist Romi Meitei and educationist delivered speeches on different topics related to the roles taken by the artistes and artist during the time of crisis while play-wright Moirangthem Priyobrata Singh preside the function.