SHILLONG: Meghalaya is set to honour one of its legendary freedom fighters, U Tirot Sing Syiem, with the unveiling of a life-size statue and bust at the prestigious Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
The grand event is scheduled to take place on February 16, with a delegation led by Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar and Art and Culture Minister Paul Lyngdoh making the journey to the neighbouring country for the ceremonial occasion.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma shared the exciting news on a micro-blogging website, expressing his happiness over the forthcoming tribute to the Khasi hero.
“I am delighted to announce that on the 16th of February, 2024, we will unveil a life-size statue and a bust of freedom fighter, U Tirot Sing Syiem, at Dhaka. The delegation will be led by Hon’ble Deputy CM, @sniawbhadhar, and accompanied by Hon’ble Minister for Tourism and Arts & Culture, Bah Paul Lyngdoh,” Chief Minister Sangma wrote.
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Minister Paul Lyngdoh, providing additional details, mentioned that the programme had been organised at the behest of the Department of Arts and Culture.
The state government has been in discussions with the Indian High Commission of Bangladesh to ensure the success of this significant cultural exchange.
The life-size statue and bust of U Tirot Sing Syiem are the creations of Shillong-based sculptor Raphael Warjri, with the approval of the Arts and Culture department.
This memorial project received the green light in August last year when High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, conveyed the approval of the proposal to set up the memorial to Minister Lyngdoh.
U Tirot Sing Syiem is celebrated as the Hero of the Khasi Hills, renowned for his exceptional warfare tactics, valour, and relentless resistance against the British colonialists.
Despite his eventual apprehension four years after the conclusion of the Anglo-Khasi War, his legacy lives on. His sacrifice culminated in his demise in the Dhaka Central Jail on July 17, 1835.
