IMPHAL, February 1: Birth centenary celebration of freedom fighter Padmabhushan Rani Gaidinliu was held today here at Iboyaima Shanglen, Palace Compound organised by Kalyan Ashram Manipur.
Speaking as the chief guest of the function, Mridula Sinha, Governor of Goa gave an account of Rani Gaidinliu and stated that she had sacrificed her life for its people to preserve and protect the rich culture and tradition and also promotion of its religion.
The chief guest during her speech called upon the people not only of the state but the whole country to know and learn about her life and mission.
Giving the keynote address, Professor Gangmumei Kamei, a former national fellow at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla, said that it was a proud moment not only for the Zeliangrong people but the whole of Manipur that a woman freedom fighter of the State is being observed and honoured in every part our country.
He further said that Rani Gaidinliu among all the freedom fighter of the country was the youngest and also suffered the longest, having been in prison for 14 years.
He also expressed his gratitude towards the union government for releasing the coins to commemorate the birth centenary of Rani Gaidinliu, to the Chief Minister of Manipur for announcing to install a life sized statue of Rani and also to the Kalyan Ashram Manipur for taking the initiative for organising such celebration.
Attending as the guest of honour of the function Leishemba Sanajaoba, titular king of Manipur stated that Rani Gaidinliu is a figure of peace, unity and solidarity.
Prof Bimola Devi, dept of political science, Manipur University and Prof Lanbilung Golmei, Associate Professor of History, Imphal College were the main speakers of the function sharing the life history of Rani Gaidinliu.
The function was also attended by Dr T Bilasini Devi, former Director of State Family Welfare department as the president and other leaders of different organisations.
