Freedom fighter Haipu Jadonang was fondly remembered on his 86th death anniversary across Manipur on Tuesday, with many leaders paying homage to him.
Haipou Jadonang (1905-1931) was a spiritual leader and political activist who fought against the British colonialism in Manipur. He established the Heraka religious movement, and declared himself to be the "messiah king" of the Nagas.
His movement was widespread in the Zeliangrong territory before the switch to Christianity. Jadonang also envisaged an independent Naga kingdom ("Makam Gwangdi" or "Naga Raj"), which brought him in conflict with the British rulers of India.
Jadonang saw the growing influence of Christianity in Naga territory as a sign of foreign imperialism. He considered it as a threat to the traditional religion and society of the Nagas.
The British were oppressive with their forced porter system, heavy hill house taxes (Rs 3 per year), and imposition of new laws. Jadonang made his ideas about the revival of Naga culture to his fellow tribals. He urged them to fight for national prestige and social change.
On June 13, 1931, Jadonang was declared guilty of murders at a trial by the British Indian authorities. He was hanged to death on August 29, 1931 on the bank of the Nambul river behind the Imphal jail.
Jadonang was succeeded by his cousin Rani Gaidinliu, a Naga spiritual and political leader who led a revolt against British rule in India.
The 86th Jadonang Martyr’s Day was commemorated at Tamenglong Headquarters. Manipur Governor Dr Najma Heptulla was supposed to attend the function as the chief guest but she could not make it due to unavoidable circumstances.
“I’m happy that the 86th Jadonang Martyr’s Day will be commemorated at Tamenglong headquarters. I wanted to be amongst you here today personally, but due to unavoidable circumstances, I could not make it. Nveretheles, I’m sending message to wish you on this momentous occasion,” Dr Heptulla said in a message.
“I complement the organisers and wish the commemoration all success,” she further said in the message.
The event held at the Haipou Jadonang Park was attended by Tamenglong district Deputy Commissioner, ADC, Tamenglong and representatives of Zeliangrong Women Union, Zeliangrong Union and Rongmei Naga Youth Organisation.
The leaders paid floral tribute to Jadonang on the occasion.
The commemorative event was also organised at Haipou Jadonang Park, Keishampat in Imphal organised by the Haipou Jadongnang Death Anniversary Committee.
Representatives from various social organisations hailing from both hills and valley paid floral tributes to Jadonang on the occasion.
Former Deputy Chief Minister and Congress MLA Gaikhangam was also present at the function.
Gaikhangam remembered Jadonang as one of the great leaders who fought for freedom. He appealed for safeguarding the unity and integrity of Manipur at the event.
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