The 185th death anniversary of Maharaj Gambhir Singh was observed at the Samadhi of Maharaj located at Langthabal, Canchipur in Imphal West district of Manipur on Wednesday.
The observance was organized by the State Archeology Department of Art and Culture, Government of Manipur.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh along with Minister of Art and Culture, Health L Jayanta Kumar and Consumer Affair Minister K Shyam attended the function.
As a part of observation, two newly installed statues of Meidingu Narasingh and Sana Herachandra were unveiled by the Chief Minister, which he promised to install during previous year’s observation.
Speaking on the occasion, Manipur Chief Minister Biren said, history need to be honoured and respected to get united. He expressed his willingness to develop the samadhi of Maharaj into a historical learning site, like a museum, that will provide a glimpse of background and history of all the kings in Manipur inside the premises.
He said apart from attracting tourists, any visitor can learn about the unique history of Manipur and kings in the place.
He also expressed that the government will protect the interest of the indigenous people in the State.
Titular king of Manipur, Leisemba Sanajaoba expressed his gratitude for the initiative taken in a short span to install the two new statues, along with Maharaj Gambhir Singh, as a gift to the
people and honouring the Manipur history.
He said, though they are the family, the installed statue will give a new sense and thrust towards patriotism.
Minister for Art and Culture L Jayantakumar Singh, Revenue Minister Karam Shyam also attended the function.
Earlier the Chief Minister led others in paying floral tributes to the portraits of Maharaja Gambhir Singh and Meidingu Narasingh.
A contingent of Manipur Rifles offered a guard of honour and gun salute and sounding of last post as a mark of respect to the Gambhir Singh, Nara Singh and other unsung heroes.