Dignitaries during Balidan Diwas in Kohima on August 25.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | August 25
The Gorkha Public Panchayat Kohima (GPPK) today observed Balidan Diwas (Martyrs’ Day) in honour of supreme sacrifice of martyrs Major Durga Malla and Captain Neikezakuo Kenguruse at the community hall in Chandmari Kohima.
Major Malla sacrificed his life to the cause of Indian independence on August 25, 1944 while Capt Kenguruse, MVC (posthumous) laid his life in Kargil War on June 28, 1999.
Gracing the occasion, as special guest, Angami Public Organization (APO) president Thejao Vihienuo said the history of mankind is a history of migration of people and community while the most important aspect is the peaceful coexistence.
Vihienuo expressed happiness that Gorkhas and people of Kohima have been coexisting for so many years now for which he appreciated the Tsütuonuomia (T Khel) Council for the accommodative spirit and also the Gorkhas for being the part of the development of Kohima town.
Maintaining that the Gorkhas had come to Kohima with bravery and loyalty as the two most prominent characteristics, Vihienuo hoped that the present generations are continuing to uphold those characteristics.
Also hailing the two martyrs’, he said such occasions are opportune for strengthening one’s patriotism and to enhance the commitment to the society and people.
He also called upon all to be dedicated and committed to the greater cause of the society.
Speaking as the guest of honour, Superintendent of Police Kohima Kohima Bharat Laxman Markad said that though the martyrs’ were from different places and communities, their sacrifice exemplified that they are united by common goal and love for the nation. He hoped that the sacrifices made by the martyrs’ would help India be prosperous in all aspects.
He also called upon the gathering to strive hard with dedication and commitment to have a country which the martyrs’ dreamt of and it will be homage to their supreme sacrifice.
GPPK advisor Ranjeet Lama shared a brief history of Maj Malla and Capt Kenguruse.
Chaired by Gorkha Students’ Union Kohima vice president Jenny Lamechane, the programme commenced with lighting of the lamp and paying floral tributes to the martyrs.
GPPK president Santu Thapa delivered welcome address while GPPK general secretary Suresh Kumar Lama proposed vote of thanks.
Welcome song was presented by Vivela Club while a special song by Priya Baraily enthralled the gathering.
Parents of Capt Kenguruse, leaders of Northern Angami Public Organization, T Khel Council, Tsütuonuomia Youth Organisation, Tsütuonuomia Students Union and KMC councillor Asangla Jamir and a galaxy of dignitaries attended the programme.
GSUCD observes Martyrdom Day
The Gorkha Students' Union Chümoukedima District (GSUCD) commemorated the 80th Martyrdom Day, also known as Balidan Diwas, of Shaheed Major Durga Malla at the GSUCD Office in Singrijan Village.
The event began with the lighting of a lamp and floral tributes to the martyr. Gopal Lama, President of the Chümoukedima District Gorkha Union, attended as the special guest and emphasized the contributions of Gorkha freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the nation. Tezu Pradhan, Head GB of Singrijan and Khopanala Village, urged attendees to show deep respect for those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom. The significance of the day was highlighted by Ajay Thapa, General Secretary of GSUCD.
Jacob Sundas, President of GSUCD, expressed his gratitude to all participants for paying homage to Major Durga Malla and upholding the legacy of Gorkha bravery and sacrifice.
