EMA Trust honours Manipur freedom fighters with commemorative painting at Cellular Jail

In a significant gesture aimed at preserving India’s lesser-known freedom struggle narratives, the Egalitarian Manipur of the Altruists (EMA) Trust, Manipur, on Tuesday, January 13 deposited a commemorative painting of historical importance at the iconic Cellular Jail in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The initiative seeks to underscore the deep-rooted historical link between Manipur and the Andamans, forged through shared sacrifice during India’s fight against colonial rule.

The move follows EMA Trust’s recent commemorative initiative at Mount Manipur (formerly Mount Harriet) and forms part of a broader effort to bring national attention to Manipur’s crucial yet often overlooked role in the freedom movement. After the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, at least 23 freedom fighters from Manipur were among the earliest revolutionaries exiled by the British to the Andaman Islands, with many later incarcerated at the Cellular Jail—one of the most powerful symbols of colonial oppression and resistance.

Artistically rendered, the painting captures the historical, emotional, and cultural bond between Manipur and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. It is intended to serve as a permanent educational and inspirational exhibit, especially for younger generations, illuminating a chapter of India’s freedom struggle that has largely remained outside mainstream historical narratives.

Addressing the significance of the initiative, Premkumar, a representative of EMA Trust, said the Cellular Jail stands not merely as a monument but as a living testimony to the indomitable spirit of India’s freedom fighters. He added that through the commemorative artwork, the Trust aims to honour their sacrifices while reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding India’s historical and cultural legacy.

The initiative is strictly non-commercial and is designed to promote historical awareness, national integration, and cultural remembrance. EMA Trust also expressed sincere gratitude to the Andaman & Nicobar Administration and the Cellular Jail authorities for their cooperation and support in preserving this shared heritage.

Reiterating its long-term mission, EMA Trust stated that such efforts are crucial to ensuring Manipur’s vital contributions to India’s freedom struggle receive due recognition and are passed on to future generations. The Trust noted that for decades, the sacrifices of Manipuri freedom fighters have remained largely absent from textbooks and mainstream discourse, and through these commemorative initiatives, it seeks to restore this proud history to the national consciousness and inspire the youth.