Imphal: Manipur observed Patriots’ Day on August 13, 2026, to honour those who were executed or deported by the British following the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.
On August 13, 1891, Crown Prince Bir Tikendrajit and General Thangal were publicly hanged at Feida Pung, in the northern part of the historic Imphal Polo Ground, after being convicted by the British for waging war against the empire.
On the same day, Niranjan Subedar, Pukhrambam Kajao and Chirai Naga were executed inside the Manipur jail. Maharaj Kulachandra and 21 others were deported to Kalapani, in present-day Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The day holds a significant place in Manipur’s history and is observed every year as Patriots’ Day. Events were organised across the state and in other places where Manipuris reside. District administrations also held commemorative programmes in different parts of Manipur.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh led the state’s observance by paying floral tributes at memorial sites associated with Crown Prince Tikendrajit and General Thangal. A contingent of the Manipur Rifles also presented a gun salute.
The Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, ministers, MLAs, Chief Secretary, Security Advisor, DGP and senior government officials also paid tribute to the martyrs.
In a Facebook post, Singh said he paid floral tributes at Hicham Yaicham Pat in Moirangkhom and later at the Temple of Thangal General in the Palace Compound in the presence of ministers, MLAs and senior officials.
The Chief Minister remembered the martyrs for their sacrifice in defending the sovereignty and integrity of Manipur against the British Empire.
He said their courage and patriotism continue to inspire people and called for their legacy to be honoured by upholding the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the nation.
Patriots’ Day is observed annually across Manipur in memory of those who resisted British rule during the Anglo-Manipuri War and faced execution, imprisonment or deportation in its aftermath.