Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 04 2010:
The commemoration of 160th death anniversary of Maharaj Narsingh, who contributed his mite towards restoring the sovereignty of Manipur and dedicated his life for welfare of his subjects, would be observed for one year starting from April 11 .
On the inaugural day of the year-long observance which would begin from Kangla, the Maharaja Narsingh Memorial Committee would be presenting The National Dedication Celebration Day Awards to seven individuals/institutes for their outstanding contribution to the society in different fields.
The Committee has been observing the death anniversary of Maharaj Narsingh every year as the National Dedication Day.
But after every 10 years, the observance is made into a year-long event.
Talking to mediapersons in connection with the year-long observance at his Moirangkhom Loklaobung residence here today, president of Maharaj Narsingh Memorial Committee E Sonamani Singh said that the sacrifices made by Maharaj Narsingh is becoming all the more relevant today in view of the prevailing political situation where those in power think only for themselves.
The role of Maharaj Narsingh in restoring the sovereignty of Manipur after it lost into the hands of marauding Burmese invaders from 1819 to 1825 (Seven Years' Desertation) is worth remembering today.
Spokesperson of Maharaj Narsingh Memorial Committee Dr RK Bedajit explained that the commemoration event is being organised to instil the qualities of Maharaj Narsingh among the youths of today.
Maharaj Narsingh was an individual, who, despite being a prince of true royal blood, did not aspire to occupy the throne.
It was only at the insistence of the people that he ascended to the throne, he said.
It is said that year-long observance would be held in different parts of Manipur and Cachar.
The seven personalities who have been selected for honouring with the National Dedication Day Celebration Awards are Thokchom Girani Singh of Kharam ( in the field of art and culture); Kh Sanatombi of Lalambung Takhellambam Leikai (in the field of agriculture); Inspector Thounaojam Shanti Singh of Imphal West Police Headquarters ( in the field of police service); headmaster of Rengkai Government High School, Churachandpur S Vamlalruala ( in the field of education), the Shelter Home at Thangmeiband Yumnam Leikai (in the field of humanitarian service), The Union Taekwondo Academy at Keishamthong ( in the field of promoting sports) and Waikhom Nydia of Kakching Super Market who topped the HSLC examination, 2008.The awards include cash prizes.