CHRONICLE NEWS SERVICE

IMPHAL: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Friday said that whenever Manipur and its development face difficult times, the work and legacy of Maharaj Gambhir Singh continue to inspire the present generation to remain united and move forward with courage.

The Governor was speaking at the state-level observance of the 192nd death anniversary of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, held at the Maharaj’s Samadhi at Langthabal. The programme was organised by the State Archaeology under the Department of Art and Culture.

Governor AK Bhalla, chief secretary Dr Puneet Kumar Goel, MLAs, vice-chancellors of different universities, and senior civil and security officials paid floral tributes at the Samadhi and statues of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, Meidingu Narasingh and Sana Hirachandra installed within the complex.

The ceremony formally began with the offering of tributes to the heroes, followed by Dhoop Pala by Shree Shree Govindaji Pala Loishang in accordance with tradition. Delivering the chief guest’s address, the Governor said that Manipur, often described as the Jewel of India, has witnessed both periods of prosperity and extreme hardship throughout its long history.

He recalled that the darkest chapter was the brutal Burmese occupation from 1819 to 1826, remembered as ‘Chahi Taret Khuntakpa’ or the Seven Years Devastation, when people were forced to flee, cultural institutions weakened and society pushed to the brink of collapse. "History also shows that great adversity gives rise to extraordinary leaders, and Maharaj Gambhir Singh emerged as a pivotal figure who shaped the future of Manipur.

After the devastation, the king took upon himself the responsibility of restoring Manipur’s independence and dignity with exceptional courage and resolve," he said. The Governor noted that at the beginning of the 19th century, Manipur was in a highly precarious position.

However, despite commanding a small force of about 500 soldiers known as the Manipur Levy, Maharaj Gambhir Singh, along with Narasingh, confronted the powerful ‘Awas’ through strategic planning, discipline and determined leadership.

Against all odds, they achieved victory, and in 1826 Manipur was liberated from Burmese occupation, an event that revived the courage and self-respect of the people and reaffirmed their united identity, he noted.

The chief guest further said that Maharaj Gambhir Singh’s contribution went beyond the battlefield. A leader of foresight and wisdom, he understood regional politics and international diplomacy, and his role in the First Anglo-Burmese War and the Treaty of Yandabo in 1826 was instrumental in ending Burmese aggression and securing global recognition of Manipur as an independent kingdom.

Although his reign was brief, the Governor said, Maharaj Gambhir Singh left behind a transformed Manipur that was independent, confident and respected. "His life demonstrates that dark times do not last forever and that visionary leadership, courage and sound decision-making can change the course of history."

Governor Bhalla said that the Maharaj’s relevance endures even today, reminding society that true leadership involves rebuilding institutions, protecting identity and ensuring a secure future.

He added that the government has declared the Samadhi of Maharaj Gambhir Singh a protected historical monument under the Manipur Ancient and Historical Monuments Act, and that the old palace at Langthabal Kangjeibung is being developed as a major tourist and learning destination, which will benefit scholars, students and generate employment while promoting cultural awareness.

He urged people to honour the king not only through ceremonies but by imbibing his spirit, and expressed hope that his legacy would continue to guide Manipur towards peace and development.