TAMENGLONG: The 95th Martyrdom Anniversary of Haipou Jadonang was on Saturday observed at Tamenglong Headquarters, commemorating the Zeliangrong Naga leader and freedom fighter who was hanged by the British colonial government on August 29, 1931.
The programme was organised by the Joint Tribes Council, Manipur (JTCM), representing the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme communities.
Before the main programme, a floral tribute ceremony was held at the statue of Haipou Jadonang at Jadonang Park. Community leaders, social leaders, women and youth representatives from the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme communities paid floral tributes to the late leader.
Among those present at the floral tribute ceremony were N Abonpou Christopher MES, ZEO, Tamenglong; Dr Chambo Gonmei, former Health Director; Kaningai Riamei, chairman, Christian Heritage Institute (CHI); Aku Newme, general secretary, Joint Tribes Council, Manipur; KC Savio, president, Rongmei Naga Council Manipur (RNCM) and co-convenor, JTCM; Anupum Atari, 2IC, 6th Assam Rifles, besides women and youth leaders from the ZeliangrongInpui community.
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Speaking during the floral tribute ceremony, JTCM general secretary Aku Newme described Haipou Jadonang as a far-sighted and visionary leader who stood up for the rights of his people from a young age. He said Jadonang was not only a freedom fighter but also a social reformer whose ideals and leadership continue to inspire generations of Naga leaders.
The main commemorative programme was subsequently held at the Town Convention Hall, Tamenglong Headquarters.
N Abonpou Christopher, ZEO, Tamenglong, graced the event as the Chief Guest, while Kaningai Riamei, chairman of the Christian Heritage Institute, attended as the Guest of Honour. Colonel Navjot Rekhi, CO, 6th Assam Rifles, Tamenglong Battalion, attended as the Special Guest.
In his introductory speech, KC Savio said Haipou Jadonang was a visionary leader who challenged British colonial rule and launched the Zeliangrong movement with the objective of bringing together the Zeme, Liangmai, Inpui and Rongmei Naga tribes.
He recalled that Haipou Jadonang was executed by the British colonial government on August 29, 1931, and said his sacrifice had become an enduring symbol of courage, unity and resistance.
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Chief Guest N Abonpou Christopher said Haipou Jadonang had laid a foundation and shown the path for the younger generations. He stressed that it was now the responsibility of the people to follow his footsteps and work towards protecting and preserving our identity, culture, customs and traditions.
Also speaking on the occasion, Kaningai Riamei called for efforts to keep the legacy of Haipou Jadonang alive. He said his principles and discipline needed to be studied and passed on to future generations.
He also emphasised the need for establishing cultural institutions dedicated to the study and preservation of Zeliangrong culture, traditions and languages. According to him, Haipou Jadonang was among the first Naga leaders to openly challenge British colonial rule while articulating a vision of Naga unity and freedom.
The anniversary programme also featured cultural dances, patriotic songs and folk songs, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Zeliangrong communities and paying tribute to the life, sacrifice and legacy of Haipou Jadonang.
The observance concluded with a renewed call to preserve the unity, identity, culture, traditions and historical legacy associated with Haipou Jadonang and the Zeliangrong movement.
