Asem Bhakta
Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: Manipur today observed the 130th birth anniversary of Lamyanba Hijam Irabot with great reverence and respect across the state, from Irawat Square to village-level organisations.
STATE LEVEL OBSERVANCE
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said the life and ideals of Jana Neta Hijam Irawat continue to hold deep relevance for Manipur.
Speaking at the State-level observance of the 130th Jana Neta Hijam Irabot Day, 2026 at Irawat Square, Lilashing Khongnangkhong, Thangmeiband, the Chief Minister paid floral tribute and called upon employees, civil bodies and students to carry forward Irawat’s spirit of sacrifice and service.
He said Irawat was a multifaceted leader who contributed to social, political, literary and journalistic fields, noting his 1922 journal _Meitei Chanu_. Despite privileges from his marriage into the royal family, he gave them up to serve the people and envisioned harmony among the 36 communities of hills and valleys.
The function was attended by Art & Culture Minister Kh. Loken Singh, several MLAs, former MPs Dr. R.K. Ranjan Singh and Dr. Lorho S. Pfoze, Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakoor, DC Imphal West M. Rajkumar, senior officers and students.
On the present challenges, the Chief Minister said the state is facing multiple problems including divisive forces, drug menace affecting the youth, unemployment and economic hardship. He said these problems can only be addressed by following Irabot’s ideals of selfless service, equality and unity.
WIDE-ANGLE OBSERVANCE AT SAGOLBAND
Simultaneously, the 130th Lamyanba Hijam Irabot Day was solemnly observed at the Wide-Angle Social Development Organisation office, Sagolband Moirang Hanuba, with participation from children across 18 villages.
The programme was graced by Arambam Surjakumar, President, Wide-Angle, as the Chief Guest. The function was presided over by Samanda Pheiroijam, Vice President, Wide-Angle, while Montu Ahanthem, Secretary, Wide-Angle, attended as the Guest of Honour.
In his keynote address, Montu Ahanthem highlighted the life, bravery, and enduring contributions of Lamyanba Hijam Irabot, emphasizing his role as a revolutionary leader, social reformer, and advocate for justice and equality.
Children from 18 villages actively participated, paying tribute through a formal salute ceremony. The event also featured a patriotic song performance, cultural drama, Thang-Ta demonstration and a slide presentation showcasing the life history of Hijam Irabot.
The programme created an inspiring atmosphere of unity and awareness among the children, encouraging them to uphold the values of social responsibility, courage, and integrity.
ACROSS MANIPUR AND BEYOND
The day was also observed across the valley districts – Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Imphal East and Imphal West – with floral tributes and seminars. Similar tributes were also held in Assam, Tripura and New Delhi by Manipuri associations.
The event concluded with appreciation to all participating children, community members, and organizers for making the observance meaningful and impactful.
