IMPHAL, January 9: The 182nd death anniversary of Maharaja Gambhir Singh was observed by State Archaeology, Department of Art & Culture at the ‘Samadhi’ of the Maharaj at Langthabal, Canchipur in Imphal West today.
The function was attended by Education and CAF & PD Minister M Okendro; Works & Transport Minister Dr Kh Ratankumar; MLA of Keirao A/C Karam Thamarjit Singh and MLA of Langthabal A/C Karam Shyam as chief guest, president and guests of honor respectively.
The observation function started with presentation of ‘Dhop Pala’ by Padmashree Leimapokpam Lakpati and his party followed by floraltribute to the portraits of Maharaj Gambhir Singh and Narasingh by the dignitaries.
Guard of honour, gun salute and sounding of last post were presented by the contingent of Manipur Rifles.
Speaking at the function, Minister Okendro assured that he would urge the Chief
Minister who also holds the Art & Culture portfolio to construct this place (Samadhi of Maharaja Gambhir Singh) as an open museum.
He said that younger generation of the State needs to be reminded about the role of Maharaj Gambhir Singh in the freedom struggle of Manipur.
“Not many people in Manipur know about this place so we need to dosomething like creating it as an open museum for the younger generations and as well as a tourist spot,” he maintained.
People of the State should remember Maharaj Gambhir Singh who liberated Manipur from the occupation of Burmese for seven years, the Minister said, declaring that from next year the function will be organized with participation of teachers and students, academicians and individuals. Minister Ratankumar noted the sense of patriotism, dedication and sense of duty of the Maharaja for his motherland.
After Manipur was liberated from the hands of the Burmese following theSeven Years Devastation, the Maharaja reconsolidated the war ravaged populations, he said.
He also said that Maharaja Gambhir’s role in maintaining the boundary of Manipur after the liberation should be remembered by the people.