Manipur today observed Patriots’ Day with solemn tributes and commemorative events across the state, honouring the courage and sacrifice of the leaders who laid down their lives during the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891.
The main state-level observance was led by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who paid floral tributes at the Samadhi of Bir Tikendrajit at Hicham Yaichampat, Moirangkhom, alongside former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, his former cabinet colleagues, Chief Secretary P.K. Goel, Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, and DGP Rajiv Singh. The dignitaries later visited the memorial of General Thangal at Palace Compound to offer homage.
The Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) marked the occasion at Congress Bhavan, with MPCC President Keisham Meghachandra and senior leaders offering floral tributes to the martyrs.
Chandel, the District Administration held the 134th Patriots’ Day observance at the Multipurpose Hall of the Mini Secretariat. Deputy Commissioner Laishram Nandakumar led floral tributes to the portraits of Bir Tikendrajit and General Thangal, followed by a gun salute from personnel of the 8th Manipur Rifles. Associate Professor Isha Vicky Ngoruh of South East Manipur College spoke on the sacrifices of the patriots. The event was attended by senior district officials, police officers, Anganwadi workers, and helpers.
In Bishnupur District observed the day at the Conference Hall of the DC Office, led by Deputy Commissioner Pooja Elangbam. Floral tributes were paid, and the gathering participated in the “Nasha Mukt Bharat” pledge. As part of the commemoration, “Prabhat Pheri” processions were held in Nambol, Bishnupur, and Moirang. District officials also took part in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign.
Thoubal, the observance at the DC Complex was led by Deputy Commissioner Hannah Kahmei, who called for unity, cooperation, and dedicated service for the state’s progress. A morning “Prabhat Pheri” was held, and patriotic songs were played at various points in the district.
In Imphal, the 86 Bn CRPF joined Savio English Higher Secondary School in paying respects to the martyrs. W. Nandini Devi, Second-in-Command of 86 Bn CRPF, reaffirmed the commitment to uphold the spirit of sacrifice shown by Bir Tikendrajit, General Thangal, and other heroes of 1891.
Patriots’ Day, observed annually on August 13, marks the anniversary of the public execution of Bir Tikendrajit and General Thangal, and commemorates all who resisted British colonial rule, many of whom were exiled to the Andaman Islands. Across the state, the day served as a poignant reminder of Manipur’s enduring legacy of bravery and sacrifice in defence of its sovereignty.
The Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, also observed the day at the New Examination Hall, RIMS, Imphal. The solemn occasion honoured the memory of the brave heroes of Manipur who fought valiantly against the British forces during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Medical Superintendent emphasized honouring the patriotic spirit of the 1891 heroes whose sacrifices won the freedom we enjoy today—a freedom earned through struggle, not given as a gift. He urged the RIMS community to work together for progress while upholding this spirit of service to humanity, calling on all to be compassionate healers, dedicated citizens, and individuals of integrity. The event concluded with prayers for the martyrs.