King Rajarshi Bhagyachandra's birth anniversary celebrated

Special correspondent

SILCHAR, Jan 23: The 276th birth anniversary of Manipur King Rajarshi Bhagyachandra who ruled the state from 1763 to 1778 was celebrated with all zeal and enthusiasm by Zilla Leibak Choukhat Marup (ZLCM) at its headquarters at Ramgar, Khelma, a conglomeration of 12 sub urban villages, near Don Bosco School recently in the presence of distinguished assembly here. The programme began with the hoisting of flag followed by group discussion participated by senior citizens Prof. O Churamany Singh and R K Gopal Sa Singh.

Held under the chairmanship of L Tezomoni Singh, president of ZLCM, the group discussion was followed by ta Sankirtan function.

 The discussion by the two leading persolities provided insight into the glorious life and achievements of the King. It came to light that during his time of reign, the King of Myanmar invaded Manipur 13 times and often Rajarshi Bhagyachandra had to take shelter in Maibong under Sandhikari Kachari Raja. He also took refuge in the territory of Ahom King.

During his stay in Ahom Kingdom, he was given all honour and help and even the Ahom King assisted him with 10,000 infantry force. It was with the help of Ahom King that Rajarshi Bhagyachandra regained his capital of Imphal. In this he also received the help of Kabui tribe of the hills. He sought spiritual refuge under Swami Premanda Goswami and learnt ‘Achinta Vedavada’ cult of Madhwacharjya Sampradaya. He introduced maharas based on the theme of rasa panchadhya of Bhagavatam.

 During his last sojourn at Murshidabad for the darshan of Ganges and pilgrimage, he visited badwip town renowned for Gour-Nitai way of worship of Lord Krish. It was through his good administration that he contacted the King of Birbhum and after discussion, both of them agreed to worship freely in temple. It was the time when Shakta cult was very aggressive. With his reasoning, Rajarshi Bhagyachandra could convince the followers of the cult that Gauranga Mahaprabhu was the second incartion of the God. It paves the way for Gouriya Vaishv Sampradaya in dia.

 It also goes to the credit of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra for introducing ta Sankritan culture which has been recognized by UNO as an integral part of our cultural heritage.

The celebration was enlivened by the ta Sankritan function.