|
|
|
|
Haipou Jadonang: A Freedom Fighter
By Romeo Palmei
The death anniversary of Haipou Jadonang, the pioneer freedom fighter of Manipur is observed in all Zeliangrong inhabited areas on August 29 every year in commemoration of the hanging of Zeliangrong hero Haipou Jadonang on the day in 1931, by the Britishers who captured him on February 19, 1931, while returning with Gaidhinliu (also a freedom fighter) from Bhubon Cave in Cachar after worshiping God.
Haipou Jadonang was born in 1905 to Thindai (father) and Tabonliu (mother) at Kambiron (Puilon) village in Tamenglong district of Manipur. He was the youngest of the three sons. Jadonang was one of the first Naga person who claimed himself to be a “Messiah King” of the Nagas to liberate his people from the clutches of British. And as such, like a God-affected man, he carried out some activities successfully against the British. He also became very popular for his prophecies, healing power, religious and social activities amongst the masses.
Visualizing the future of Naga Raj, Jadonang started organizing his people to put up opposition against the British. To do that Jadonang’s words and activities spread like wildfire and engulfed the whole Zeliangrong areas and further widened its influence upon neighboring areas.
Confronted by the outburst of violence and murder, the Political Agent of Manipur State, J.C.Higgins finally succeeded in arresting Jadonang on February 19, 1931 at Cachar. On March 29, 1931 Jadonang was brought to Imphal and confined him in the worst room of Imphal Jail, while prosecution against him and some of his followers was going on at the court of the Manipur Political Agent.
At last, on Saturday, August 29, 1931 in the agony of sorrow and bravery, Jadonang was hanged till death by the order of the British Government on the banks of Nambul River behind the Imphal Jail leaving behind a legacy of struggle. Thus the pioneer and champion of anti-colonial movement in the Northeast ended his life as a martyr. Thus ended the journey of this messiah who dedicated his life for the progress and upliftment of his people, though his dream of uniting his people is yet to see the light of day but it would be decades when another such being comes into our midst.
"August 13" or rather the "Patriots Day" is one of the most important days the people of Manipur observed. So as to remember the three heroes namely, Paona Brajabashi, General Thangal and Bir Tikendrajit who have earned themselves a niche in the history of Manipur for their valuable sacrifice they had made to free the people of Manipur from the bondage of British imperialism.
And hence, as a mark of respect and honor, the Government of Manipur has declared the day as a State holiday, since than. It is worth to mention the contribution made by Jadonang for the cause of the people of Manipur in general and the Zeliangrong community in particularly, the Government of Manipur should also recognized and declare the August 29 as a General Holiday to honor and respect the veteran freedom fighter who stood against the British colonialism.
Lastly, the peace loving people of Manipur shedding aside the differences in caste, creed, color and religion can come together as one big family and observed such historic occasion together for an emotional integrity and unity.
(Courtesy: The Sangai Express)
|
| |
|
|
Welcome! 
International
Features
