152nd Death Anniversary of U Kiang Nangbah observed
JOWAI: The Jaintia Iasiat Khnam Kiang Nangbah Memorial Society (JIKKNMS) observed the 152nd death anniversary of legendary freedom fighter U Kiang Nangbah at Madiah Kmai Blai (Syntu- Ksiar) on Tuesday.
Madiah Kmai Blai (Syntu-Ksiar) was the place where the first Dorbar of elders of the 12 Elakas was held and it was in this meeting that the Dorbar resolved to fight against British imperialism in 1861-62.
Nangbah, who stood for the rights, traditions and freedom of the local populace, was sentenced to death by the British in 1862.
A monument and statue of U Kiang Nangbah also stands erect at Madiah Kmai Blai. The statue was erected years ago by the JIKKNMS with financial assistance from the JHADC.
Parliamentary Secretary in charge Soil and Water Conservation, Comingone Ymbon attended the event as the chief guest while JHADC EM Andrew Chullai was the guest of honour. Director of Arts and Culture, Matsiewdor War Nongbri and other government officials also attended the event.
On the occasion, the JIKKNMS honoured its 126 founder members, 10 of whom are still alive.
According to one of its founder members, H Sumer, the JIKKNMS, which was formed 48 years ago, has commemorated the Death Anniversary of U Kiang Nangbah every year without fail.
“We have invited several leaders as the chief guest including legislators from Jaintia Hills and cabinet ministers in the last 48 years. We have sought financial assistance from the government through these leaders in order to help us develop this place. However, all such moves ended up in sweet promises,” Sumer said adding that Madan Madiah Kmai Blai needs proper fencing and beautification as it attracts visitors from across the country.
Meanwhile, the chief guest lauded the effort of the JIKKNMS in ensuring that people do not forget the supreme sacrifice made by the great hero of the Pnar. “Kiang Nangbah is an inspiration to all of us…,” he said.
He observed that many of the youths today have taken the wrong path and have become slaves to alcohol and drugs. He asked them to change their habits and be free from the bondage of such enemies.
Ymbon also asked the leaders and members of the JIKKNMS to work hand-in-hand with the government to ensure that the place where the monument of Kiang Nangbah stands could be developed and beautified.
JYF President, P. Majaw, Director Arts and Culture, Matsiewdor War Nongbri and Andrew Chullai also spoke on the occasion beside others.
NGOs including the Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU), Jaintia Youth Federation (JYF), Meghalaya People’s United Front (MPUF), the Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC), HANM offered floral tributes to the great freedom fighter.
Earlier, the Sein Raij Jowai also observed the death anniversary of the freedom fighter at Sein Raij Hall, Iongpiah Jowai on Tuesday.