Kangla Fort in Imphal

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Kangla Fort in Imphal is a place that is highly visited by tourist and is respected by all in Manipur. It is also revered as a sacred place of Manipur in Imphal. Kangla Fort is located at Kangla in Manipur. The crown of the fort gives a gorgeous glimpse of the surrounding areas. Kangla Fort was the place where the kings of Manipur practiced their powers. Since the ancient times, the capital of Manipur was Kangla. It remained so till the year 1891A.D. It was in the year 1892 A.D. when it fell into the British hands. Ruins of this historically significant fort still sings the laurels of its past.

Historical Importance of Kangla Fort

The site of Kangla holds immense historical importance in Manipur. It was at Kangla where the kingdom of Manipur was established and flourished. Through the centuries, Kangla has been a site of political and religious importance and thus, has grown into a daunting fortress city. Ningthouja clan became wieldable from this capital in terms of military as well as political power and turned into the principal clan of Manipur. There are several references of the construction of Kangla Fort by successive kings who reigned in Manipur. Kangla Fort has given ample chances to the kings of Manipur to grow and excel in their powers.

Seven Years Devastation of Manipur

The reign of Maharaja Bhagyachandra (1762 - 1798 A.D.) witnessed Kangla being deserted many times due to repeated invasions by the Burmese. The Burmese invading forces occupied Manipur for seven years. These forces were rooted out by the tireless efforts of Maharaja Gambhir Singh, with the help of the Manipur Levy. The time of Burmese rule on this land is recorded in the annals of Manipur as 'Chahi Taret Khuntakpa' or 'Seven Years Devastation'.

Major Landmarks of Kangla Fort

King Khagemba (1597 - 1652 A.D.) constructed chief landmarks which aided in the growth of Kangla Fort. He built a brick wall at the western gate of Kangla Fort in 1632 A.D. Khunjaoba (1632 - 1666 A.D.), son of King Khagemba; worked for the betterment of the fortification and beautification of Kangla Fort. It is said that on the western side of the Fort, the king excavated a moat. King Garibaniwaz was responsible for further improvement and enlargement of the Fort. Successive kings of Manipur carried this practice after him.

The Kangla Fort is located at the center of the city of Imphal, on the western bank of the River Imphal. According to 'Cheitharol Kummaba', the imperial account of Manipur; since the reign of Pakhangba who ascended the throne in 33 A.D., Kangla was the royal palace. Now, the fort of Kangla is not seen in the same splendor and magnificence but its glory still remains the same. Kangla Fort in Imphal is a masterpiece among all the places of historical significance in Imphal and it continues to enjoy its uniqueness as the end number of tourists visit it year after year.