Governor leads 192nd death anniversary observance of Maharaj Gambhir Singh at Langthabal

The 192nd death anniversary of Maharaj Gambhir Singh was observed with solemn reverence at the Samadhi of the Maharaj at Langthabal, Canchipur, with Governor of Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla leading the commemorative programme today.
The Governor led the gathering in offering floral tributes to the portrait of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, followed by a Guard of Honour, Gun Salute and the sounding of the Last Post accorded by a contingent of the Manipur Rifles. The ceremony paid homage to the pivotal role played by the Maharaj in restoring Manipur’s sovereignty during one of the most turbulent phases of its history.
Subsequently, the Governor led the offering of floral tributes to the statues of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, Meidingu Narasingh and Sana Herachandra. He also led the observance of Tarpan Katpa and paid obeisance to the Dhop Pala in accordance with traditional rites. Members of the Legislative Assembly, the Chief Secretary, the Security Advisor, senior civil and police officers, and members of the public attended the observance.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla recalled that Manipur’s history, despite its many moments of glory, endured immense suffering during the Burmese occupation from 1819 to 1826, a period remembered as Chahi Taret Khuntakpa or the Seven Years Devastation. He stated that this phase brought unprecedented destruction and posed a grave threat to the very existence of the kingdom, displacing the population and dismantling its political and social structures.
The Governor said that it was during this darkest period that the leadership of Maharaj Gambhir Singh emerged as a defining force. His courage, resolve and ability to unite the people, the Governor noted, became the foundation of a determined struggle that ultimately restored Manipur’s freedom. He observed that the Maharaj’s contribution was not confined to military success alone, but extended to statesmanship of lasting significance.
Governor Bhalla further stated that Maharaj Gambhir Singh’s vision culminated in the international recognition of Manipur’s sovereignty through the Treaty of Yandabo, which marked a decisive moment in the kingdom’s history. He said the State Government is committed to honouring this enduring legacy by preserving the Samadhi of the Maharaj as a protected historical monument and by developing Langthabal Konung Ching as a centre of heritage, learning and tourism.
The Governor urged the people to remember Maharaj Gambhir Singh not merely through ceremonial observances, but by imbibing the spirit of courage, unity and unwavering commitment to the welfare and dignity of Manipur that defined his life and legacy.