Lakhipuronline Digital Desk : In a historic event on December 23, 2024, the statues of Maharaj Gambhir Singh and Meidingu Nara Singh, accompanied by soldiers of the Manipur Levy, were unveiled at the Manipur Levy Ground in Chandrapur, Cachar. The unveiling was done 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 jointly organized 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 established the Manipur Levy in 1824 to resist Burmese rule. Displaced Manipuri princes found refuge in Cachar, where they recruited and trained soldiers for liberation efforts. The Levy successfully liberated Manipur in 1826, restoring Gambhir Singh to the throne and enhancing ties between Cachar and Manipur, showcasing Cachar’s role as a base for resistance.
Key Highlights of the Program:
Land Donors Honored: 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 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: Keisham Surjababu delivered the welcome speech, followed by keynotes from Seram Herajit. Dr. Thokchom Babachandra spoke on the history of Chandrapur, and 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 program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Tampakmayum Salaw Uddin. The event witnessed the presence of eminent dignitaries, including Nongthombam Rupachandra, Thangjam Brojen, Yengkokpam Dhiren, Khomdram Ratan, Leishangbam Jaduman, and Dr. K.N. Chand.
The unveiling marks a significant tribute to the historical contributions of the Manipur Levy and its leaders in the region’s history.