Statues of Maharaj Gambhir Singh and Meidingu Nara Singh Unveiled at Chandrapur, Cachar

Lakhipuronline Digital Desk: On December 23, 2024, statues of Maharaj Gambhir Singh and Meidingu Nara Singh, along with the soldiers of Manipur Levy, were unveiled at Manipur Levy Ground in Chandrapur, Cachar. The ceremony was conducted by Ningthemcha Sanayaima, the great-grandson of Bir Tikendrajit, in the presence of Shri Kaushik Rai, Honourable Minister of Food and Civil Supply, Consumer Affairs, Mines and Minerals & Barak Valley Development Department, Government of Assam.

The event was a joint collaboration between:

• Maharaj Gambhir Singh Memorial Committee, Chandrapur Cachar
• United Peoples Front, Manipur
• Manipuri Youths Front of Assam, Silchar
• Hingminmasi (VWF), Manipur

Historical Context of the Manipur Levy

During the early 19th century, during the Burmese occupation of Manipur, Maharaja Gambhir Singh formed the Manipur Levy in 1824 to fight against the Burmese. Manipuri princes, who were evicted from their homeland, took shelter in Cachar, raised and trained troops, and ultimately liberated Manipur in 1826. This historical event reinforced the relationship between Cachar and Manipur as a stronghold for resistance.

Key Highlights of the Program

The land for the statues was generously donated by Kangujam Ningol Keisham Ongbi Mukta Rani Devi, Keisham Nabin Chandra Singha, Keisham Birendra Singha, and Keisham Surjya Babu Singha in memory of their late family members.

Flag Hoisting and Unveiling

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Ningthemcha Sanayaima hoisted the Manipur Levy flag and unveiled the statues.

Speeches and Cultural Program

The welcome address was delivered by Keisham Surjababu. Keynote addresses were given by Seram Herajit. Dr. Thokchom Babachandra spoke on the history of Chandrapur, while Dr. N.D. Hodamba highlighted the life and contributions of Maharaj Gambhir Singh.

Commitment for Development

Shri Kaushik Rai announced a grant of ₹5 lakhs for the development of Chandrapur Manipur Levy Ground.

Souvenir Release

A souvenir edited by Konthoujam Mangoljaw was released by Shri Kaushik Rai.

Thang-Ta Performance

The All Assam Huyel Lalong Thang-Ta Association, Kamranga Cachar, presented a mesmerizing Thang-Ta performance.

Maharaj Gambhir Singh: The Liberator of Manipur

Maharaj Gambhir Singh (1788-1834) is revered as the saviour and architect of modern Manipur. He rose to prominence during the tumultuous period known as the "Chahi Taret Khuntakpa" (Seven Years' Devastation), when the kingdom was occupied by the Burmese.

Displaying immense courage and strategic prowess, Gambhir Singh sought the help of the British to expel the invaders. He raised a force of 500 men, known as the Manipur Levy, and with British assistance, successfully led a campaign to liberate Manipur. On June 10, 1825, his forces victoriously entered the capital, ending the devastating Burmese rule.

The Treaty of Yandaboo in 1826 formally recognized him as the independent ruler of Manipur. His reign marked the beginning of reconstruction and the restoration of the kingdom's sovereignty after a period of immense hardship. He passed away on January 9, 1834, leaving a legacy as a national hero.

Meidingu Nara Singh: A courageous warrior

Meidingu Nara Singh (1792–1850) was a significant ruler of the Kingdom of Manipur. He first served as the regent from 1834 to 1844 for the young king, Chandrakirti Singh. Following an assassination attempt on him and the subsequent flight of the queen and her son, Nara Singh ascended the throne in 1844 at the request of the people, ruling until his death.

A courageous warrior, he was the commander of the Manipur Levy that, alongside his cousin Gambhir Singh, drove out the Burmese invaders, ending the devastating "Seven Years Devastation" (1819-1826). His reign is remembered for bringing stability, unifying the hills and valley people, and for his dedication to the welfare of his subjects.

Conclusion

The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Tampakmayum Salaw Uddin. Eminent dignitaries present at the event included Nongthombam Rupachandra, Thangjam Brojen, Yengkokpam Dhiren, Khomdram Ratan, Leishangbam Jaduman, and Dr. K.N. Chand. The unveiling event was a significant tribute to the historical contributions made by the Manipur Levy and its leaders.

✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team