Imphal, February 19, 2010: A newly constructed temple of Ibudhou Pakhangba has been consecrated along with a Hiyang Hirel (royal boat) amidst religious rituals at Kangla today.

Before the temple was inaugurated by Health and Family Welfare Minister Ph Parijat, a team of priest and priestess invoked Ibudhou Pakhangba at Nungjeng Pukhri Macha from where a religious procession was taken out with priestesses offering Maibi Jagoi to the tune of Pena till the newly constructed temple.

Construction work of the temple was initiated by the Manipur Police Housing Corporation Limited from December 8, 2004 under the aegis of the Kangla Fort Board.

The 48 feet high temple costs Rs 1,40,42,576.The main architectural features of the temple are the Pakhangba's altar and the seven coloured flag which symbolised the seven clans -- Mangang, Luwang, Khuman, Angom, Moirang, Kha-Nganba and Sarang Leishangthem.

The temple is located beside the Nungjeng Pukhri to the left side of the western gate.

One Hiyang Hirel and a Tanna-Hi were also inaugurated by Ph Parijat today.

The Hiyang Hirel and the Tanna-Hi cost Rs 14,93,678.The Hiyang Hirel is 64 feet long and 36 inches wide.

The inaugural function organised by the Kangla Fort Board was graced by Health Minister Ph Parijat, Art and Culture Commissioner P Bharat and president of Sanamahi Temple Board Irengbam Lukhoi as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.

Giving key-note address of the function, Art and Culture Director Dr Kh Sorojini said that re-building a temple of Ibudhou Pakhangba and re-installation of Hiyang Hirel has been long cherished wish of the people.

She said that the temple was built after due consultation with cognoscentis and living Pundits.

The Hiyang Hirel was built out of a Uningthou tree brought from Kasom village of Senapati district after performing due rituals.

Ph Parijat said that the real owner of Kangla is Ibudhou Pakhangba.

Referring to the newly constructed temple of Ibudhou Pakhangba, he remarked that it's a dream come true for many people.

According to religious leaders and scholars, there are 108 sacred sites in Kangla.

So far, the Kangla Fort Board has succeeded in identifying 44 sacred sites, said P Bharat.

Taking part in the inaugural function, social worker RK Ranendrajit said that Kangla occupies an important position not only in the religious life but also in building up Manipuri national character.

He asserted that all students should be taught about Kangla, its history and significance.

A large number of people offered their obeisance to Ibudhou Pakhangba at the newly constructed temple today.

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