King Kulachandra of Manipur: A Forgotten Monarch of Resistance and Resilience

Mount Manipur in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

King Kulachandra Singh of Manipur was a significant yet often overlooked figure in the history of North-East India. His reign (1890–1891) was brief but crucial, marked by internal conflicts and external threats. His most defining moment came during the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, which led to the annexation of Manipur by the British. Despite his valiant efforts, Kulachandra's legacy remains overshadowed by the broader colonial narrative. It is time to revisit his contributions and acknowledge his role in shaping Manipur's history.

The Tumultuous Ascension to the Throne

King Kulachandra ascended the throne of Manipur in 1890 amidst a turbulent political landscape. The Manipuri kingdom was internally divided, with rival factions vying for control. The ousting of his predecessor, Maharaja Surchandra, led to a power struggle that culminated in Kulachandra's coronation. However, his position remained precarious, with the British closely monitoring developments in the region.

The Anglo-Manipur War of 1891: A Defining Moment

One of the most pivotal events in King Kulachandra’s reign was the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. The British, under Chief Commissioner James Wallace Quinton, sought to impose their authority over Manipur by demanding the removal of Senapati Tikendrajit, Kulachandra's brother and a key military leader. The Manipuris resisted, leading to the execution of Quinton and other British officials in March 1891. This act of defiance provoked a full-scale British invasion.

Despite being outnumbered and facing superior weaponry, the Manipuri forces, under Tikendrajit’s command, put up a fierce resistance. However, the British eventually overpowered them, capturing key strongholds and effectively bringing Manipur under colonial rule.

The Aftermath: Exile and Erasure

Following the British victory, Kulachandra and several other leaders were captured. While Tikendrajit and a few others were executed, Kulachandra was exiled to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands along with other royal officials. This exile effectively removed him from Manipur’s political landscape, and the British installed a puppet ruler, further consolidating their control. Mount Harriet, the third-highest island peak in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, served as the site of imprisonment for Maharaja Kulachandra Singh and 22 other freedom fighters during the Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891.

Legacy and Reappraisal

King Kulachandra's role in resisting British imperialism has often been overlooked in mainstream historical narratives. While Tikendrajit is widely celebrated as a martyr, Kulachandra’s contributions remain underappreciated. His leadership during the war and the sacrifices he endured in exile exemplify his resilience and commitment to Manipur’s sovereignty.

In a tribute to their sacrifice, the Union government of India, in 2021, has renamed Mount Harriet to Mount Manipur. Additionally, Manipur commemorates Khongjom Day on 23rd April every year to honor the freedom fighters of the Anglo-Manipuri War.

Today, there is a growing movement to recognize and honor King Kulachandra’s contributions. Scholars and historians are revisiting his legacy, ensuring that his role in the Anglo-Manipur War and his subsequent suffering are not forgotten. The people of Manipur continue to draw inspiration from his resistance against colonial oppression.

Conclusion

King Kulachandra of Manipur was a ruler caught in the storm of history. His tenure was marked by internal strife and external aggression, culminating in a war that changed the fate of Manipur forever. Though he spent his final years in exile, his defiance against British imperialism cements his place in history as a symbol of resistance. It is essential that his story be remembered and taught, ensuring that future generations recognize the sacrifices made in the fight for sovereignty and self-determination.