Lakhipuronline Digital Desk : On December 23, 2024, Maharaj Gambhir Singh and Meidingu Nara Singh‘s statues, accompanied by the soldiers of Manipur Levy, were unveiled at Manipur Levy Ground in Chandrapur, Cachar. The unveiling ceremony was conducted by Ningthemcha Sanayaima, who is Bir Tikendrajit‘s great-grandson, 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 by the Maharaj Gambhir Singh Memorial Committee, Chandrapur Cachar; United Peoples Front, Manipur; Manipuri Youths Front of Assam, Silchar; and Hingminmasi (VWF), Manipur.
Historical Context of the Manipur Levy
In 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 and raised and trained troops for the liberation forces. The Levy liberated Manipur in 1826 and restored Gambhir Singh to the throne and strengthened the relations between Cachar and Manipur, demonstrating Cachar as a base for resistance.
Key Highlights of the Program:
The land for the statues was donated by Kangujam Ningol Keisham Ongbi Mukta Rani Devi, Keisham Nabin Chandra Singha, Keisham Birendra Singha, and Keisham Surjya Babu Singha in the memory of their late family members.
Flag Hoisting and Unveiling: 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 the 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.
The programme culminated with a vote of thanks delivered by Tampakmayum Salaw Uddin. Eminent dignitaries present on the occasion included Nongthombam Rupachandra, Thangjam Brojen, Yengkokpam Dhiren, Khomdram Ratan, Leishangbam Jaduman, and Dr. K.N. Chand.
The Unveiling event is a big tribute to the historical contributions made by the Manipur Levy and its leaders towards the history of the region.