Manipur on Thursday observed the 135th Patriots’ Day, commemorating those who sacrificed their lives while resisting British rule during the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, Deputy Chief Ministers Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho, and Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh paid tributes to the patriots who fought to defend Manipur’s sovereignty.

The Chief Minister, political leaders, intellectuals and social activists gathered at Heecham Yaicham Pat in Imphal’s Moirangkhom, where Yuvraj Bir Tikendrajit Singh was cremated following his execution by the British. In his message, Khemchand Singh remembered the courage and sacrifice of the martyrs, particularly Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General, and noted that their resistance continues to inspire efforts to uphold unity, integrity and sovereignty.

Patriots’ Day is observed annually on August 13 in memory of those who fought against British forces during the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. The occasion particularly honours Bir Tikendrajit Singh, the Crown Prince and commander of the Manipuri Army, and Thangal General, who played prominent roles in the resistance against the British campaign to bring Manipur under their control.

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The Anglo-Manipur War followed a period of political tensions involving the British authorities and the Manipur royal establishment. After the British military campaign defeated the Manipuri forces, several leaders involved in the resistance were arrested and sentenced. On August 13, 1891, Bir Tikendrajit Singh and Thangal General were publicly executed at Pheidabung, now associated with Bir Tikendrajit Park in Imphal.

The Opposition Congress also observed the occasion separately at Congress Bhawan in Imphal, where Congress Legislature Party leader Keisham Meghachandra Singh led the programme. He paid tribute to Bir Tikendrajit Singh, Thangal General and other patriots who sacrificed their lives during the 1891 conflict, while urging people to preserve their legacy through peace, unity, justice and the protection of Manipur’s land and people.

A series of commemorative programmes were organised across Manipur by the state government and various organisations to mark the 135th Patriots’ Day. The annual observance remains an important occasion in the state’s historical calendar, remembering the resistance, valour and sacrifices of those who fought against British forces in defence of Manipur’s sovereignty during the 1891 war.

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