Senapati, August 13: The Thangal Union, in collaboration with the United Naga Council (UNC), organised the Patriots’ Day Commemoration under the theme “Remember and Honour” at General Thangal Ecological Park, Mayangkhang, under Kangpokpi district, Manipur, on Wednesday. The event paid tribute to General Thangal, Chirai Naga, and other leaders who laid down their lives in the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.
Hill Areas Committee (HAC) chairman and retired IAS officer Dinganglung Gangmei, gracing the occasion as chief guest, commended the organisers for preserving the values, culture, and history of past glory. He stressed that, like developed societies, the community should share its historical legacy with contemporary generations. Recalling General Thangal’s defiance against white supremacy and British colonial rule, Gangmei lauded the contributions of great Naga leaders to Naga nationalism. He praised the UNC’s stand and urged continued support and cooperation. Responding to a request from the Thangal Union president to sponsor the event annually, Gangmei said it could become a yearly programme, but reminded the need for collective effort. He suggested future observances be organised on a larger scale with greater tribal participation.
Guest of honour and UNC president Ng. Lorho called the day a proud moment, describing General Thangal as a son of the Naga people who sacrificed his life for their cause. He reaffirmed the UNC’s unwavering stance on the Naga political issue. Another guest of honour, H. Kuba Peter, president of the Naga People’s Organisation (NPO) Senapati, highlighted that such sacrifices deserve greater attention from the Manipur government and called for yearly budgetary provisions to support a grand celebration.
The programme, compered by RK Graceson, began with an opening prayer by Rev. Dr. P. Majulong, pastor of M. Ningthoupham Baptist Church. RK Philip, president of the Thangal Union, delivered the welcome address and keynote speech. Rev. Cheijinba Rakhangmi, executive secretary of TNBA, led a silent prayer in honour of the heroes. Cultural performances were presented by Mayangkhang village, along with a special song by M. Kadanbui and a choreography by M. Ningthoupham women. Dikapa, vice president of the Thangal Union, gave the vote of thanks, followed by a closing prayer by Rev. S. Graceson, pastor of Nteiramphung.
Earlier, dignitaries, tribal leaders, and religious heads laid wreaths at the statues of Chirai Thangal and General Thangal. A traditional gun salute was performed by M. Ningthoupham youth. The event drew participation from leaders of various Naga tribes, Thangal Union members, NPO and UNC officials, and villagers from neighbouring areas.
Patriots’ Day, an official holiday in Manipur observed every August 13, commemorates the Manipuri commanders who were executed during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.
